Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson says, when he dies, ownership of both teams will to to his wife, Gayle, and not his granddaughter, Rita Benson LeBlanc. It was expected that Benson’s granddaughter would succeed him in leading the two teams. Benson said this change in plan is necessary for the long-term success of both the football and basketball team. Benson LeBlanc’s offices at team headquarters have been vacated.

Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis has confirmed the hiring of former Dolphins General Manager Jeff Ireland. Ireland’s exact title with the Saints has not been determined, but Loomis says he’ll be involved in college and pro scouting and assist in other areas within the front office. He says Ireland will be able to provide fresh ideas

cut 19 (12) “more efficient”

To make room for Ireland in the front office, the team fired director of college scouting Rick Reiprish, who had been with the Black and Gold since the 2004 season.

ULM takes a six-game winning streak into tonight’s home game against Texas-Arlington. Defense has been the key to the Warhawks success, as they are allowing just 60 points a game and opponents are shooting 37-percent from the field. U-L-M Coach Keith Richard credits the size and length they have in the front court…

cut 17 (07) “some shots”

The Mavericks come into tonight’s game with a 10-and-7 record. The Warhawks sit atop the Sun Belt standings.

Also tonight, UL-Lafayette will try to snap their three-game losing streak as they host Arkansas State. And Louisiana Tech will try to stay perfect in Conference USA as they travel to face North Texas.

Anthony Davis returned from a toe injury last night and lead the Pelicans to a 96-80 win over the Los Angeles Lakers in the Smoothie King Center. Davis scored 29 points in his return and Tyreke Evans added 19, while Eric Gordon pumped in 17. The Pels are 21-21 and four games behind Phoenix for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.