Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The New Orleans Pelicans franchise began in 1988 as the Charlotte Hornets before relocating to New Orleans in 2002. The team adopted the Pelicans name in 2013, but its ownership history stretches back to its origins in Charlotte. Over the years, the franchise has been controlled by a small number of principal owners, each guiding the organization through major transitions.
George Shinn (1988–2007)
George Shinn founded the Charlotte Hornets and served as the franchise’s principal owner from its inception in 1988. Under his ownership, the Hornets became one of the NBA’s most popular expansion teams. In 2002, Shinn relocated the franchise from Charlotte to New Orleans, establishing the city’s first permanent NBA team.
George Shinn and Gary Chouest (2007–2010)
In 2007, Louisiana businessman Gary Chouest purchased a minority stake in the franchise and became Shinn’s primary ownership partner. Together, they controlled the team during a period that included the successful Chris Paul era and the franchise’s return to New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina-related displacement.
NBA Ownership (2010–2012)
The NBA purchased the franchise from George Shinn in 2010 after efforts to find a local buyer. During this period, the league operated the team directly while seeking long-term ownership committed to keeping the franchise in New Orleans.
Tom Benson (2012–2018)
New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson purchased the franchise from the NBA in 2012. Benson’s acquisition secured the team’s future in New Orleans and brought the city’s NFL and NBA franchises under common ownership. During his tenure, the organization rebranded from the Hornets to the Pelicans in 2013.
Gayle Benson (2018–Present)
Following Tom Benson’s death in 2018, ownership of the Pelicans passed to his widow, Gayle Benson. She remains the team’s principal owner and continues to oversee both the Pelicans and the New Orleans Saints. Under her ownership, the franchise has entered a new era centered around young talent and long-term growth.
New Orleans Pelicans Ownership Timeline
| Owner | Years |
|---|---|
| George Shinn | 1988–2007 |
| George Shinn & Gary Chouest | 2007–2010 |
| NBA (League Ownership) | 2010–2012 |
| Tom Benson | 2012–2018 |
| Gayle Benson | 2018–Present |
The Pelicans franchise has experienced five distinct ownership eras, from George Shinn’s founding of the Charlotte Hornets to Gayle Benson’s current stewardship in New Orleans. Despite relocation, rebranding, and league ownership, the franchise has maintained a stable presence and future in New Orleans.