In the past 16 years, the NBA Development League has been home to some great NBA players and a place where younger less experienced players can develop their game. The number of D-League affiliates of NBA franchises has steadily grown over the years and now is at an all-time high of 22 teams.
With just a few teams remaining without a D-league affiliate, the New Orleans Pelicans can soon scratch their name off that list as they announced their plans for a D-League affiliate in the near future.
Following from The New Orleans Pelicans.
The New Orleans Pelicans announced today that the organization intends to launch its own NBA Development League team with the intention of beginning play in the 2018-2019 season when the league will be known as the NBA Gatorade League (NBA G League). The franchise is sending a Request for Proposal (RFP) to 11 different cities and/or communities across Louisiana (seven), Mississippi (two), Alabama (one) and Florida (one).
The Pelicans also went on to talk about the importance of the D-League from a developmental standpoint and how it can benefit them in the future.
It is a wise and necessary investment into the future of the Pelicans. The team will provide us with a better platform of developing our younger players and staff. It also will allow us the opportunity to widen the spectrum of fans that come in contact with our organization on a regional basis.
This is huge news as yet another team will be receiving a D-League affiliate and take a step forward for overall player development.
