In 2013, the team's owner, Tom Benson, decided to change the name to the Pelicans. The reason? To give the team a more local flavor. The brown pelican is the state bird of Louisiana, after all!
The name change wasn't without controversy, though. Some fans were attached to the Hornets name and didn't want to see it go. But, the Pelicans name has grown on people, and it's now a beloved part of the team's identity.
So, why is this topic so fun to talk about? Well, for one, it's a great example of how sports teams can be a reflection of their city's culture and history. The Pelicans name is a nod to the city's rich heritage and its famous waterbirds.
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