Gayle Benson
The owner who carries forward the Pelicans' legacy with steady leadership.
Gayle Marie LaJaunie Bird Benson (born January 26, 1947) is an American businesswoman who is the owner of the New Orleans Pelicans of the National Basketball Association (NBA). She became the principal owner of the Pelicans following the death of her husband, Tom Benson, in 2018. Benson is one of only five female owners in the NBA, along with Jody Allen (Portland Trail Blazers), Jeanie Buss (Los Angeles Lakers), Miriam Adelson (Dallas Mavericks), and Ann Walton Kroenke (Denver Nuggets).
- Acquisition Year
- 2018 (inherited upon Tom Benson's death)
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Benson's path to ownership of the Pelicans was marked by a contentious family legal battle. Tom Benson had originally planned to bequeath the voting stock shares of the New Orleans Pelicans to his daughter Renee Benson, grandson Ryan Benson LeBlanc, and granddaughter Rita Benson LeBlanc. However, on December 27, 2014, Tom Benson wrote an e-mail to his daughter and two grandchildren stating he wanted 'no further contact with any of you,' and named Gayle Benson his heir. Tom Benson's daughter and grandchildren filed lawsuits challenging his decision, questioning his mental competency. Tom Benson was ultimately determined to be mentally competent and was allowed to change his will to leave ownership of the New Orleans Pelicans to his wife. Gayle Benson became the principal owner following Tom Benson's death in 2018.
In Their Own Story
The legal battle over the future of the Pelicans played out in courtrooms, not on the basketball court. Tom Benson's daughter and grandchildren challenged his decision to name Gayle his heir, questioning his mental competency. The courts determined Tom Benson was mentally competent, allowing him to change his will. When Tom Benson died in 2018, Gayle Benson stepped into the role of principal owner, inheriting the franchise he had fought to keep in New Orleans.
Reader's Guide
Gayle Benson is one of five female owners in the NBA, alongside Jody Allen (Portland Trail Blazers), Jeanie Buss (Los Angeles Lakers), Miriam Adelson (Dallas Mavericks), and Ann Walton Kroenke (Denver Nuggets). Her ownership of the Pelicans is paired with her ownership of the New Orleans Saints of the NFL, making her a central figure in New Orleans professional sports.
Did You Know?
- Gayle Benson was born Gayle Marie LaJaunie on January 26, 1947.
- She grew up in Algiers, New Orleans, and graduated from Martin Behrman High School in 1966.
- Benson is one of only five female owners in the NBA.
- She became the principal owner of the Pelicans following the death of her husband, Tom Benson, in 2018.
- Tom Benson's daughter and grandchildren filed lawsuits challenging his decision to name Gayle his heir, questioning his mental competency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Gayle Benson?
She serves as the principal owner of the New Orleans Pelicans and also holds ownership of the NFL's New Orleans Saints. Her leadership has been a defining force in the city's professional sports landscape since 2012.
When did she acquire the franchise?
Benson purchased the team in 2012 during a period of financial instability for the organization. This move secured the franchise's future location in New Orleans following its relocation from Charlotte.
Did she change the team name?
Yes, under her stewardship the franchise was rebranded from the Hornets to the Pelicans in 2013. This shift established a new modern identity for the club while reflecting local culture.
Where do the Pelicans play their home games?
The team currently hosts its matches at the Smoothie King Center. This arena remains the primary venue for the franchise throughout her active ownership tenure.
Why is she important to New Orleans sports history?
Benson is a pivotal figure because she ensured the basketball team remained in the city during uncertain financial times. Her dual role as owner of both major professional teams makes her central to local athletics.
More in Club History & Eras
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