The New Orleans Pelicans' logo unveiled

It's official: New Orleans will drop the Hornets nickname in favor of the Pelicans next season. Owner Tom Benson made the announcement Thursday, and the Times-Picayune reported that the team colors will be red, blue and gold.

The pelican is Louisiana's state bird, so there's a connection here (and here's a video explaining the name change).

Now if Charlotte would just drop the Bobcats name and reclaim the Hornets, the universe will feel righted. UPDATE: Charlotte ownership is already doing market research, the Charlotte Observer reports. Rejoice, Hive Drive!

And from the old Hornets' website.