And they say New Orleans is a football city.
While that claim might not be refutable just yet, the Pelicans have come a long way towards reversing it, exciting fans with the allure of a possible championship in the near future. The hype comes on the back of star-man Anthony Davis, whose ascension to the throne is in full swing. Safe to say, Alvin Gentry isn't necessarily worried about inflated expectations either.
Claims of increased anticipation aren't qualitatively-based, either; there's supporting data. The Pelicans, for the first time in franchise history, sold out every floor-side seat in the building, as Michael Stanfield, senior vice president of sales, announced at a fan event Tuesday.