New Orleans Hornets Owner George Shinn, Mayor C. Ray Nagin, Councilmember Cynthia Willard-Lewis and Senator Ann Duplessis announced today a new partnership between Eastern New Orleans and the Hornets.

The vision for this partnership is to build a world-class multi-purpose complex in Eastern New Orleans and a state-of-the-art training facility for the Hornets in Downtown New Orleans.

"When the opportunity arose to have the practice facility downtown, it offered too many advantages to the New Orleans downtown area and the team," said Shinn. "We are proud and excited to be in a position to further the economic renaissance of the city, and give back to the people of Eastern New Orleans. All of New Orleans is our home and these projects illustrate how we will be a part of this city for the long term."

The new state-of-the-art practice facility would feature three full-length basketball courts along with the latest in weight and training equipment, including an underwater treadmill and hot and cold whirlpools. Broadcast facilities, office space and meeting rooms will complete the interior, which will house both the basketball and business departments.

"Through a series of successful meetings we crafted an agreement in principal that's a slam dunk for all parties," said Mayor Nagin.

The multi-purpose facility will provide the community of Eastern New Orleans with a first-class venue for activities and events ranging from sporting events to community meetings and social gatherings.

Councilmember Willard-Lewis, Senator Duplessis and the entire New Orleans East Legislative Delegation expressed their  "commitment to our constituents to help Eastern New Orleans reach its full potential and reap the greatest possible return."