March 26, 2013
On Saturday, March 23, the New Orleans Hornets hosted their first ever “Toast for the Coast” gala with a collection of fans, season ticket holders, team staff, players and coaches in attendance. The message was unifying and focused: the future of the franchise is one of which all New Orleanians can be proud.
The emphasis was on both basketball and coastal wetland restoration. Monty Williams was the first keynote speaker and introduced himself and his coaching staff. Williams noted, “This staff is committed to this city, committed to bringing you a team you can be proud of.”
Before passing the microphone along to Owner Mr. Tom Benson, Williams discussed his passion for the reason for the evening: coastal restoration: “Thank you to the Bensons for their commitment to our coastal wetlands. As an avid fisherman, I get it, I spend a lot of time in the bayou and I see the need for this cause.”
After a brief cocktail hour and silent auction period, Hornets forward Ryan Anderson introduced his fellow players and their significant others, with each player being randomly assigned sponsor tables to dine while mingling and sitting next to fans.
After an evening of food, socializing and even a little dancing, the gala ended with a keen sense of optimism and excitement for the future. Funds were raised for coastal restoration through both a silent and live auction and Mr. Benson summed up the mood best: “It’s time for New Orleans to be not only a great football city, but a great basketball city that we can be very proud of.”