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History of the New Orleans Jazz
The New Orleans Jazz were founded as an NBA expansion franchise in 1974, bringing professional basketball to one of America's most culturally rich cities. Although the team played in New Orleans for only five seasons, it introduced the NBA to Louisiana and featured one of the greatest players in basketball history, Pete Maravich. Financial difficulties, inconsistent attendance, and arena issues ultimately forced the franchise to relocate to Salt Lake City in 1979, where it became the Utah Jazz. Despite the move, the New Orleans Jazz remain an important part of NBA history.
NBA Expansion Comes to New Orleans
The NBA awarded New Orleans an expansion franchise in 1974 alongside the New Orleans-based ownership group led by Sam Battistone Jr. The team adopted the name "Jazz" to honor the city's world-famous musical heritage and deep connection to jazz music.
The franchise played its home games at the Louisiana Superdome and the Loyola Field House during its early seasons. While the Superdome provided a large venue, it often proved too big for regular NBA crowds, creating financial challenges for the young franchise.
The Arrival of Pete Maravich
The Jazz quickly acquired hometown favorite Pete Maravich from the Atlanta Hawks shortly before the franchise's inaugural season.
Known as "Pistol Pete," Maravich became the face of the organization with his spectacular ball-handling, creative passing, and remarkable scoring ability. His exciting style made him one of the NBA's biggest attractions and helped generate interest in professional basketball throughout Louisiana.
During the 1976–77 season, Maravich averaged a league-leading 31.1 points per game, capturing the NBA scoring title while producing some of the most entertaining performances in league history.
Building the Franchise
Although Maravich was a superstar, the Jazz struggled to build a consistent winner around him.
Notable players during the New Orleans years included:
- Pete Maravich
- Truck Robinson
- Aaron James
- Gail Goodrich
- Rich Kelley
The franchise posted only one winning season during its five years in New Orleans and never qualified for the NBA Playoffs.
Financial Challenges
Despite Maravich's popularity, the Jazz faced serious financial problems.
Attendance was inconsistent, ownership struggled with mounting debt, and the large Superdome proved difficult to fill for regular-season games.
The franchise also lacked a stable practice facility and modern basketball infrastructure, making long-term success difficult.
Move to Utah
Following the 1978–79 season, owner Sam Battistone Jr. relocated the franchise to Salt Lake City, Utah.
Although Utah had little connection to jazz music, the team retained the "Jazz" nickname rather than adopting a new identity.
The relocation marked the end of the NBA's first era in New Orleans. More than two decades later, the league returned to the city when the Charlotte Hornets temporarily relocated following Hurricane Katrina before eventually becoming the New Orleans Pelicans.
Home Arenas
| Years |
Arena |
| 1974–1979 |
Louisiana Superdome |
| 1974–1975 (select games) |
Loyola Field House |
| 1975–1979 (select games) |
Municipal Auditorium |
Franchise Timeline
| Year |
Event |
| 1974 | Join the NBA as an expansion franchise. |
| 1974 | Acquire Pete Maravich from the Atlanta Hawks. |
| 1977 | Pete Maravich wins the NBA scoring title. |
| 1979 | Relocate to Salt Lake City and become the Utah Jazz. |
Franchise Greats
- Pete Maravich
- Truck Robinson
- Gail Goodrich
- Aaron James
- Rich Kelley
Notable Coaches
- Scotty Robertson
- Elgin Baylor
- Tom Nissalke
Awards and Achievements
- NBA expansion franchise (1974).
- Pete Maravich won the 1977 NBA scoring title.
- Introduced NBA basketball to New Orleans.
- Foundation of today's Utah Jazz franchise.
Legacy
Although the New Orleans Jazz existed for only five seasons, the franchise left a lasting impression on NBA history. Pete Maravich's dazzling play captivated fans and remains one of the most memorable chapters in professional basketball. The team's name, inspired by New Orleans' legendary music scene, became one of the NBA's most recognizable identities.
While financial challenges led to the franchise's relocation to Utah in 1979, the New Orleans Jazz laid the groundwork for one of the league's longest-running franchises. Their story also helped pave the way for the NBA's eventual return to New Orleans, ensuring the city's place in professional basketball history.
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