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NBA·ANALYSIS·September 5, 2026 08:25 PM ET

Shelburne’s 2019 Anthony Davis comments resurface

Davis rejected race as a factor in New Orleans boos

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 61 min read
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What happened: Ramona Shelburne apologized in November 2019 after linking the reaction to Anthony Davis’ trade request partly to race and New Orleans’ location in the South. She also cited the Pelicans’ difficulty obtaining fair value as a reason for the delay.

Why it matters: The controversy preceded Davis’ first game in New Orleans after his trade to the Los Angeles Lakers. It revived tensions surrounding his exit and Rich Paul’s role in pressing for a deal.

By the numbers: Davis played seven seasons for the Pelicans before the 2019 trade.

What to watch: Watch for responses as the 2019 remarks circulate again.

Sources

  • nola.com 
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