50 Facts About Smoothie King Center

The Birth of Smoothie King Center

The Smoothie King Center, home to the New Orleans Pelicans, has a rich history and many fascinating aspects. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about this iconic venue.

1. Opened in 1999: The Smoothie King Center first opened its doors on October 29, 1999. It was originally known as the New Orleans Arena.

2. Naming Rights: In 2014, Smoothie King acquired the naming rights, transforming the New Orleans Arena into the Smoothie King Center.

3. Construction Cost: The construction of the arena cost approximately $114 million, a significant investment for the city of New Orleans.

4. Seating Capacity: The arena can hold up to 17,791 spectators for basketball games, making it a sizable venue for sports and entertainment events.

5. Architectural Design: Designed by Arthur Q. Davis and Partners, the architecture of the Smoothie King Center is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Home to the New Orleans Pelicans

As the primary home for the New Orleans Pelicans, the Smoothie King Center has seen countless memorable moments in basketball history.

6. NBA Team: The New Orleans Pelicans, an NBA team, have called the Smoothie King Center their home since 2002.

7. First Game: The first NBA game played at the arena was on October 30, 2002, when the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans) faced the Utah Jazz.

8. All-Star Game: The Smoothie King Center hosted the NBA All-Star Game in 2008 and 2014, showcasing the venue on a national stage.

9. Pelicans' Mascot: The Pelicans' mascot, Pierre the Pelican, is a fan favorite and a regular sight at the arena.

10. Fan Experience: The arena offers a unique fan experience with interactive zones, merchandise shops, and various food and beverage options.

Concerts and Events

Beyond basketball, the Smoothie King Center is a premier location for concerts and other major events.

11. Concert Venue: The arena has hosted numerous high-profile concerts, including performances by Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Elton John.

12. Wrestling Events: WWE events, such as WrestleMania and Raw, have taken place at the Smoothie King Center, drawing large crowds.

13. Family Shows: Family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice and the Harlem Globetrotters have entertained audiences of all ages.

14. Boxing Matches: The venue has also been the site for significant boxing matches, adding to its diverse event portfolio.

15. Graduation Ceremonies: Local high schools and universities often use the arena for graduation ceremonies, making it a community hub.

Unique Features

The Smoothie King Center boasts several unique features that set it apart from other arenas.

16. Smoothie King Concessions: True to its name, the arena offers a variety of Smoothie King smoothies at concession stands.

17. Luxury Suites: The venue includes 56 luxury suites, providing a premium experience for guests.

18. Club Seats: Club seating offers fans an enhanced experience with better views and exclusive amenities.

19. LED Lighting: The arena features state-of-the-art LED lighting, enhancing the visual experience for events.

20. Eco-Friendly Initiatives: The Smoothie King Center has implemented eco-friendly practices, such as recycling programs and energy-efficient systems.

Community Impact

The Smoothie King Center plays a significant role in the New Orleans community, contributing to both the economy and local culture.

21. Economic Impact: The arena generates substantial economic activity for New Orleans, including job creation and tourism revenue.

22. Charity Events: The venue hosts various charity events, supporting local non-profits and community initiatives.

23. Local Partnerships: The Smoothie King Center partners with local businesses, providing opportunities for collaboration and growth.

24. Youth Programs: The arena supports youth programs, offering basketball clinics and other activities for young athletes.

25. Cultural Events: The venue hosts cultural events, celebrating the rich heritage and diversity of New Orleans.

Technological Advancements

The Smoothie King Center stays ahead of the curve with cutting-edge technology and modern amenities.

26. Wi-Fi Access: The arena offers free Wi-Fi access for all guests, ensuring connectivity during events.

27. Mobile Ticketing: Mobile ticketing options make it easy for fans to purchase and manage their tickets.

28. High-Definition Screens: High-definition video screens provide clear and vibrant visuals for attendees.

29. Sound System: The state-of-the-art sound system ensures high-quality audio for concerts and events.

30. Interactive Apps: The Smoothie King Center app offers interactive features, such as seat upgrades and event information.

Memorable Moments

Over the years, the Smoothie King Center has been the backdrop for many unforgettable moments.

31. Katrina Recovery: After Hurricane Katrina, the arena played a crucial role in the city's recovery, hosting events and providing a sense of normalcy.

32. Record Attendance: The highest attendance for a basketball game at the arena was 18,524 during a Pelicans playoff game in 2018.

33. Historic Concerts: Legendary artists like Prince and Paul McCartney have graced the stage, leaving lasting memories for fans.

34. Championship Games: The arena has hosted championship games for various sports, adding to its storied history.

35. Celebrity Appearances: Celebrities often attend events at the Smoothie King Center, adding to the excitement and allure.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the Smoothie King Center continues to evolve and plan for the future.

36. Renovations: Ongoing renovations aim to enhance the fan experience and modernize the facility.

37. New Partnerships: The arena seeks new partnerships to bring diverse events and opportunities to New Orleans.

38. Sustainability Goals: Future plans include further sustainability initiatives, reducing the venue's environmental footprint.

39. Technological Upgrades: Continued technological upgrades will keep the arena at the forefront of innovation.

40. Community Engagement: The Smoothie King Center remains committed to engaging with the local community and supporting its growth.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about the Smoothie King Center.

41. Unique Roof Design: The roof of the arena is designed to resemble a king's crown, a nod to its namesake.

42. Celebrity Fans: Famous fans like Lil Wayne and Anthony Mackie are often spotted at Pelicans games.

43. Mascot Races: During halftime, mascot races entertain the crowd, featuring Pierre the Pelican and other local mascots.

44. Food Options: The arena offers a wide range of food options, from classic stadium fare to local New Orleans cuisine.

45. Interactive Zones: Interactive zones within the arena provide fun activities for fans of all ages.

Behind the Scenes

A lot goes on behind the scenes to ensure the Smoothie King Center runs smoothly.

46. Dedicated Staff: A dedicated team of staff members works tirelessly to ensure events go off without a hitch.

47. Security Measures: Advanced security measures are in place to keep guests safe during events.

48. Event Planning: Detailed event planning ensures a seamless experience for both performers and attendees.

49. Maintenance: Regular maintenance keeps the arena in top condition, providing a safe and enjoyable environment.

50. Volunteer Programs: Volunteer programs offer opportunities for community members to get involved and support events.

The Final Whistle

Smoothie King Center isn’t just a sports arena; it’s a hub of excitement, history, and community spirit. From hosting the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans to being a prime concert venue, this place has seen it all. The center’s eco-friendly initiatives and unique architectural features make it stand out. Whether you’re a sports fan, music lover, or just someone looking for a good time, there’s always something happening here. The next time you’re in New Orleans, make sure to check out this iconic venue. You’ll experience the energy and passion that make Smoothie King Center a true gem in the heart of the city. So, grab your tickets, enjoy the show, and become part of the vibrant history that continues to unfold within these walls.