Bill Simmons suggests removing NBA franchise from New Orleans

Bill Simmons, on his podcast, argued that the NBA should consider relocating its franchise from New Orleans, citing a lack of basketball culture and success in the city. He highlighted that no team has thrived there for nearly 50 years, despite the city hosting three different franchises. Simmons compared New Orleans to Portland, suggesting that the latter has demonstrated a stronger basketball connection. The discussion comes amid reports of potential franchise movements, including the Portland Trail Blazers, which owner Tom Dundon has mentioned. The New Orleans Pelicans, the city's current NBA team, previously held other identities, including the Jazz and the Hornets.

• 7:08 AMYahoo Sports — Bill Simmons says one city should have their NBA franchise taken away because it has ‘never worked’