During Friday night's matchups between the Pelicans and Kings, general manager Dell Demps spoke with sideline reporter Jen Hale on New Orleans Pelicans’ intent to own and operate a D-League team beginning in 2018-19 season:
What are some of the benefits [of owning and operating your own D-League team]? Why are [the Pelicans] going after this?
“We are really excited about this opportunity. It’s a great way to develop not only players, but also coaches and staff – and what I mean by staff, I mean medical [personnel], and the business side as well. It’s just going to be great for our organization.”
Do you feel that your experience in a D-League front office helped you be more successful at the NBA level?
“Absolutely. I was a general manager in the D-League for three years and an assistant coach for two, so I have five years of D-League experience. It was great for me. It really helped me grow.”
Is it true that 40-percent of NBA players spend time in the D-League?
“Yes, 40-percent. You know, it has been a great place to develop players. The players are coming in so young now, so it’s a great way for them to learn and be coached. It’s also great for coaches - young coaches coming in [and beginning their careers] and ex-players transitioning into the coaching world.
On the next steps:
“Yes, we are going to look at possible locations in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Louisiana, and we are hoping to have a team in close proximity to New Orleans so we can expose professional basketball to fans close by. It will be great for the community, for the entire gulf south region, and we are really excited about it. Starting next season, the NBA is going to be implementing two-way contracts, and that will be very beneficial for the Pelicans and the development of younger players.”
Does this speak to the Benson’s commitment to the Pelicans and the commitment of New Orleans to creating a top tier NBA team?
“Absolutely. You couldn’t have said it better. The Bensons have been great. This is just another investment into the future of the Pelicans franchise and we are going to see the results out on the court, with the growth and development of players, and that’s what makes it so great.”