KENNER, La. (WVUE) – The New Orleans Pelicans announced Monday (March 30) that their NBA G League affiliate will relocate from Birmingham, Ala., to Kenner and rebrand as the Laketown Squadron.
The developmental league team is expected to begin play at the newly renovated Pontchartrain Center, located in Kenner’s Laketown Park, for the 2026-27 season.
Pelicans G-League team may move to KennerPartnership with Kenner
Pelicans governor Gayle Benson said the move represents an investment in the community.
“We are proud to bring the Squadron and NBA G League basketball to the City of Kenner and Laketown Park,” Benson said. “We thank Kenner Mayor Michael Glaser and the Kenner City Council for their partnership in making this move possible, and we look forward to growing our basketball fan base and investing in this vibrant, family-oriented community.”
Kenner mayor Michael Glaser said the relocation represents an economic development opportunity for the city.
“We thank Mrs. Benson and the Pelicans organization for their investment because it aligns with our broader strategy to activate Kenner’s key assets, drive foot traffic, and support local businesses,” Glaser said. “Bringing a professional sports organization to our lakefront will generate consistent activity, create new revenue opportunities for surrounding businesses, and further position Laketown as a destination within the regional economy.”
The renovations will cost roughly $6 million. Glaser said the team will not pay rent until it recoups its money.
“The City of Kenner will get revenues from the parking, concessions and things like that,” Glaser said. “To attract somebody, you have to give them an avenue to recoup their initial investment.”
Facility renovations
The Squadron and the City of Kenner plan to complete a renovation to the Pontchartrain Center ahead of the 2026-27 season. The renovation will include new locker rooms, upgraded audio and lighting systems, and enhanced video boards in the 3,700-seat facility.
Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars said the proximity to Kenner will improve operations.
“The close proximity to Kenner gives us the ability to better align our basketball operations and coaching strategies, integrate player development, and enhance roster flexibility throughout the season,” Dumars said.
As part of the contract, Glaser said the team committed to booking hotel rooms in Kenner first.
“It’s about 900 rooms they need a season. They have a staff of about 25 that we encourage to live in the City of Kenner,” said Glaser. “The increased foot traffic will drive revenue that the City of Kenner needs to operate this whole area.”
Transition from Birmingham
The Birmingham Squadron recently completed the 2025-26 season on March 27.
“We are extremely grateful for the partnership we have built with the City of Birmingham including the fans, community partners, and civic leaders who supported the Squadron on and off the court,” Benson said. “Birmingham remains an important part of our region, and we thank Mayor Randall Woodfin and BJCC CEO Tad Snider for their leadership and support through this transition.”
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