Mercedes-Benz Superdome
The intimate fortress of New Orleans basketball where history and resilience collide.
The Smoothie King Center, originally known as the New Orleans Arena, has been the primary home of the New Orleans Pelicans since the franchise relocated from Charlotte in 2002 as the New Orleans Hornets (the Pelicans name was adopted in 2013). The franchise's history is intertwined with the Charlotte Hornets: the original Hornets moved to New Orleans in 2002, but in 2014, the Charlotte Hornets name and history were reclaimed by Charlotte, while the New Orleans franchise—which had been considered a continuation of the original Hornets until 2013—became the Pelicans. Located in the heart of downtown New Orleans, this intimate arena is a fortress for basketball within the Crescent City. While the neighboring Mercedes-Benz Superdome is globally renowned for hosting Super Bowls, the Smoothie King Center has been the dedicated stage where the Pelicans have built their identity, weathering natural disasters and celebrating championship-caliber talent.
- Role
- Primary Home Arena
- Location
- Downtown New Orleans, Louisiana
- Opened
- 1999
- Original Name
- New Orleans Arena
- Renamed To Current
- 2014
- Capacity_Basketball
- Approximately 16,867
Lore & Background
Inside the Smoothie King Center, the atmosphere is electric, distinct from the cavernous Superdome next door. The arena's design creates an intimate, loud environment that amplifies the roar of the crowd during clutch moments. It has hosted legendary performances by franchise icons like Chris Paul, who led the team (as the New Orleans Hornets, a continuation of the original Charlotte Hornets) to the Western Conference Semifinals in 2008, and Anthony Davis, whose dominance defined an era within these walls. The Smoothie King Center represents the intersection of New Orleans' rich cultural heritage and the high-stakes world of professional sports.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the dome hums with a low-frequency vibration before tip-off, a mix of distant brass music echoing from the concourse and the sharp squeak of sneakers on hardwood. Under the vast, white canopy, the court glows like an island in a sea of navy blue seats. As the crowd rises for the national anthem, the sheer weight of the city's history presses down on the arena, not as a burden, but as fuel. When the ball finally hits the rim and the net snaps, the sound bounces off the high ceiling, creating a thunderous wave that rolls through downtown New Orleans.
Reader's Guide
The Superdome offers a unique game-day experience defined by its massive scale and deep cultural roots. Fans often arrive early to explore the concourse, where local food vendors serve authentic New Orleans cuisine like po'boys and beignets, setting the stage for a culinary journey alongside the basketball action.
A staple of Pelicans games is the integration of jazz culture into the broadcast and halftime shows. The arena frequently features live performances by legendary brass bands, ensuring that the sound of the city accompanies every dunk and three-pointer, creating an atmosphere unlike any other in the NBA.
Beyond entertainment, the team utilizes the Superdome as a community hub, hosting youth clinics and charity events that reinforce their commitment to the local population. The arena serves as a gathering place where the resilience of New Orleans is celebrated through sport.
Did You Know?
- The Pelicans (then the Hornets) played several regular-season games in other cities during the 2005-06 season due to Hurricane Katrina damage before returning to the New Orleans Arena.
- Chris Paul led the team to the Western Conference Semifinals while playing at this venue in 2008, where they lost in seven games to the San Antonio Spurs.
- The Smoothie King Center has a fixed dome roof, not a retractable one; the retractable roof claim is incorrect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mercedes-Benz Superdome?
Originally called the Louisiana Superdome, this downtown New Orleans stadium has served as the primary home arena for the Pelicans since their 2002 relocation from Charlotte. It is a historic multi-purpose venue that officially adopted its current name in 2014.
Why is the Mercedes-Benz Superdome important to the team?
The arena acts as a resilient fortress where the Pelicans have built their identity while surviving natural disasters and hosting championship-level talent. Its intimate basketball configuration allows fans to feel close to the action despite its massive global reputation for hosting Super Bowls.
When did the Mercedes-Benz Superdome open?
This engineering marvel first opened its doors in 1975, long before it became the dedicated home of New Orleans professional basketball. It has stood as a central landmark in the Crescent City for nearly five decades.
How many fans can fit inside during a Pelicans game?
When configured specifically for basketball, the stadium holds approximately 16,867 spectators to create an intense atmosphere. This capacity ensures that every home game feels like a packed event within the domed structure.
Where is the Mercedes-Benz Superdome located?
The arena stands in the heart of downtown New Orleans, Louisiana, serving as the central hub for the city's basketball culture. Its prominent location makes it an accessible and iconic destination for fans visiting the Crescent City.