Auburn great Jabari Smith Jr. leads Rockets over the Pelicans in Birmingham [PHOTO GALLERY]

Reading time: 2 minutes

NBA / New Orleans Pelicans / Houston Rockets / BJCC / Legacy Are
(Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

The NBA came to Birmingham last night—and one thing was on the mind of everyone in attendance—former Auburn great Jabari Smith, Jr. loves playing in the state of Alabama.

Rockets beat hometown favorite Pelicans

NBA / New Orleans Pelicans / Houston Rockets / BJCC / Legacy Are
(Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

Smith, who plays for the Houston Rockets, scored 13 of his 22 points in the first quarter, knocking down three 3-pointers and shooting 5-6 from the field. The Rockets star and third overall pick in 2022 ended the pre-season matchup between the New Orleans Pelicans and Houston Rockets with a game-high 22 points, nine rebounds, two assists and a steal.

The Rockets defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 120-87 in front of a capacity crowd at Legacy Arena, home of the Birmingham Squadron, the Pelicans’ G League team.

Two former Alabama players also played significant minutes for the Pelicans Thursday night—Herb Jones and Kira Lewis, Jr.

Pelicans v. Rockets 2023 version

Bham Now’s own Nathan Watson captured some of the action from last night’s game. Check out his photos below:

NBA / New Orleans Pelicans / Houston Rockets / BJCC / Legacy Are
(Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

Birmingham Squadron opening night tickets on sale

Birmingham Squadron
(Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

The preseason game was just the beginning for another exciting season of basketball in the Magic City with our own Birmingham Squadron.

The team’s first game is slated for November 10.


Learn about all the season ticket packages and fan experiences planned for the upcoming 23-24 Squadron season. We recommend you call the team directly at (205) 719-0850 to help guide you.

For more articles like this, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and sign up for our FREE newsletter.

Pat Byington
Pat Byington

Longtime conservationist. Former Executive Director at the Alabama Environmental Council and Wild South. Publisher of the Bama Environmental News for more than 18 years. Career highlights include playing an active role in the creation of Alabama's Forever Wild program, Little River Canyon National Preserve, Dugger Mountain Wilderness, preservation of special places throughout the East through the Wilderness Society and the strengthening (making more stringent) the state of Alabama's cancer risk and mercury standards.

Articles: 2668