NBA free agency opens today. The offseason has already gotten off to a hot start with blockbuster trades moving stars like former Hornet Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and Kristaps Porzingis. The Pelicans management have been adamant that the team will not be looking to make any major changes to the roster this offseason after the signs of success a healthy Pelicans squad showed last year, but some NBA execs expect the Pelicans to make major moves before next season. New Orleans declined defensive specialist Herb Jones’s $1.8 million team option for this season. He’ll become a restricted free agents where the Pels will hope to extend him on a longer deal worth closer to $50 million. New Orleans also declined center Willy Hernangomez’s team-option and failed to extend a qualifying offer to center Jaxson Hayes, but they could look to bring Hayes back. Reports have pointed towards the team shopping former 13th overall pick Kira Lewis. The guard made a return from a season ending ACL injury last year but struggled to find playing time in a crowded backcourt. The free agency window opens at 5:00 this evening.
McNeese broke ground on a new press box for Cowboy Stadium yesterday. Much of southwest Louisiana was devastated by Hurricanes Delta and Laura in 2020. The former press box like much of the Lake Charles area sustained significant damages and a complete overhaul was required. Now, three years later, Director of Facilities Kevin Martin says this project is about more than just a football stadium. Recovery from Hurricane Laura has taken longer than expected for many, including the university, but Martin says the new box will be a return of a local landmark and symbol of progress for many in the area…
The new box will be over 28,000 square feet, house 25 suites and a 17-hundred square foot sky club and extend goal line to goal line. It is expected to open for the 2025 season.