Brandon Ingram's return to the Smoothie King Center was a heartfelt homecoming, even if he missed the video tribute due to coach Darko Rajakovic's animated instructions. But who needs a video when the love from New Orleans was palpable?
From the moment Ingram stepped into the arena, the warmth from fans was undeniable. The chants of “BRAN-DON IN-GRAM” echoed as he made his way through, signing autographs and catching up with familiar faces. It was a night of nostalgia and appreciation, both from the crowd and from Ingram himself.
Reflecting on his 5 ½ seasons with the Pelicans, Ingram expressed gratitude for the growth he experienced alongside coaches like Willie Green, Alvin Gentry, and Stan Van Gundy. His tenure in New Orleans was marked by personal milestones, including his first All-Star appearance, and he left a legacy, ranking in the top 10 in franchise history for points, rebounds, and assists.
The fans' admiration was clear during the game, and Ingram reciprocated it after. “It made me who I am today,” he shared, acknowledging the impact of the city and its people on his career. Although the Raptors fell to the Pelicans 122-111, with Ingram contributing 22 points, six rebounds, and five assists, the night was about more than just basketball.
Ingram admitted he needed the love, especially after a rough patch in his performance. The familiar faces and supportive cheers reminded him of his roots in Kinston, North Carolina, and the community that embraced him in New Orleans.
It had been over a year since Ingram last played in New Orleans, his final game marked by an ankle injury in December 2024. The trade that followed ended a chapter with the Pelicans, a team that once envisioned him and Zion Williamson as the dynamic duo to transform their fortunes. After the game, Ingram and Williamson shared a meaningful conversation, reflecting on their shared ambitions and Williamson’s current success.
The night was a celebration of basketball and camaraderie, with Pelicans fans witnessing a rare moment: Ingram, Williamson, Dejounte Murray, Trey Murphy, and Herb Jones all healthy and on the court, albeit on opposing teams. Ingram may have donned a different jersey, but the cheers from the crowd were a testament to the enduring connection he shares with New Orleans.