The NBA All-Stars game will be heading back to New Orleans for 2014. NBA Commissioner David Stern's announcement would mark the second time in six years that the city has hosted the All Star game.
The decision was made three days after the New Orleans Hornets team was purchased by Tom Benson along with a lease extension at the New Orleans Arena. The decision as in a form of a reward to the city after sponsorship and ticket holders financially supported the franchise before Benson bought the team.
"There is no better place to celebrate and showcase the NBA than in New Orleans, a city with a rich tradition of hosting major events that is second-to-none," said NBA Commissioner David Stern.
Stern made the announcement in New Orleans alongside Benson and Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal. The team's new owner, Benson, also owns the city's football team the New Orleans Saints. The news will surely thrill the city with its new beginnings and big events in the NBA All Star Game and Super Bowl in 2013.
"I have always taken great pride in our city hosting Super Bowls. I don't think any city does it better than New Orleans," said Benson. "With the NBA, we get the unique opportunity from time to time to host the NBA All-Star Game, which has proven to be one of the highlights of the NBA season and will be a highlight for our city in 2014."
"In February 2013, we will host the Super Bowl. In February 2014, we will host the NBA All-Star Game. The city of New Orleans is the place to be," added Benson.
Under unique circumstances, the NBA took ownership of the Hornets in 2010 after buying it from founder George Shinn for $318 million. The Hornets team originally played in Charlotte, North Carolina but then moved to New Orleans in 2002. From 2005-2007, the team temporarily moved and played in Oklahoma City due to the catastrophe of Hurricane Katrina. A lease was signed between the NBA and Louisiana for using the New Orleans Arena until 2024.
Benson along with fans in New Orleans plan to seek a new name for the franchise, likely one that reflects the city's culture and heritage.
"We want to change the name from Hornets to something that means New Orleans and Louisiana," said Benson. "The Hornets don't mean anything" to the area.
A name change is just one of the things on Benson's to-do list. It was said that he plans on a new practice facility along with new colors and uniforms.
"I thank Commissioner Stern for making this announcement today and once again proving how much he believes in the city of New Orleans," said Benson.