Birmingham Squadron Overview
The Birmingham Squadron is a professional basketball team competing in the NBA G League. Based in Birmingham, Alabama, the team serves as the official G League affiliate of the New Orleans Pelicans. Founded in 2019 initially as the Erie BayHawks, the franchise relocated to Birmingham in 2021 after extensive renovations to Legacy Arena, where they currently play their home games. The team is owned by the New Orleans Pelicans under Governor Gayle Benson and sports the colors red, gold, and navy blue, reflecting both local heritage and the Pelicans’ identity.
Founding and Organizational Origins
The New Orleans Pelicans announced plans in 2017 to establish an owned-and-operated NBA G League team in the Gulf South region by the 2018–19 season. After evaluating multiple cities across Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi, the Pelicans initially considered Pensacola and Shreveport. However, Shreveport’s city council rejected arena construction plans, causing the Pelicans to pause their efforts. In October 2018, Birmingham was selected as the team’s future home, with plans to renovate Legacy Arena extensively. While renovations were underway, the franchise began play as the Erie BayHawks in 2019, filling the void left by the Atlanta Hawks’ affiliate relocation.
Growth Into NBA G League Competition
The franchise operated as the Erie BayHawks from 2019 to 2021, serving as the Pelicans’ G League affiliate. The team was led by head coach Ryan Pannone during its Erie tenure, competing in a shortened 2020–21 season and making the playoffs. In 2021, following the completion of Legacy Arena renovations, the franchise relocated to Birmingham and rebranded as the Birmingham Squadron. The move marked the beginning of the team’s direct presence in the NBA G League within Alabama, with a new coaching staff and management led by general manager David Lane.
Birmingham Squadron Competitive Journey
The Birmingham Squadron’s competitive journey began as the Erie BayHawks in 2019, transitioning to Birmingham in 2021. The team has steadily developed its program within the NBA G League, focusing on player development and competitive growth aligned with their NBA affiliate.
Early Seasons and Development (2019–2021)
As the Erie BayHawks, the team played its inaugural season in 2019–20 under head coach Ryan Pannone, finishing with a 13–30 record before the season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The following 2020–21 season was shortened and held at a single site, where the BayHawks qualified for the playoffs but were eliminated in the quarterfinals. The franchise faced operational challenges, including the cessation of Erie Basketball Management’s operations in 2021 after failing to secure a new NBA partner.
Breakthrough in NBA G League (2021–Present)
Relocating to Birmingham in 2021, the team rebranded as the Birmingham Squadron, adopting a name and logo that honor Alabama’s military aviation history and the Pelicans’ identity. The Squadron played their first home game in December 2021, drawing nearly 5,000 fans. They made the playoffs in their inaugural Birmingham season but were defeated in the first round. Coaching changes followed, with T.J. Saint promoted to head coach after Ryan Pannone joined the Pelicans’ NBA staff. The Squadron finished the subsequent season with an 11–21 record, placing 12th in the Western Conference and missing the playoffs.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2023–Present)
Currently, the Birmingham Squadron are led by head coach Joe Barrer and general manager David Lane. The team maintains a strong affiliation with the New Orleans Pelicans and plays at the renovated Legacy Arena. The Squadron’s colors—red, gold, and navy blue—reflect both local and Pelicans’ heritage. Partnerships with sponsors such as Pearl River Resort and NEEZO Studios support the team’s operations. The organization focuses on developing talent and building competitive strength within the Eastern Conference of the NBA G League.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
The Birmingham Squadron emphasize player development and strategic growth aligned with their NBA affiliate’s goals. Their identity blends local cultural heritage with professional basketball standards, aiming to excel in team cohesion, adaptability, and competitive resilience.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
Key milestones include the franchise’s relocation and rebranding in 2021, the first home game at Legacy Arena with strong fan attendance, and playoff appearances in both Erie and Birmingham. The promotion of coaching staff to the NBA level and partnerships with local sponsors mark significant organizational achievements.
Birmingham Squadron Achievements and Results
Since their founding, the Birmingham Squadron have steadily built their presence in the NBA G League. While the team has yet to secure championships, they have achieved playoff appearances and established a solid foundation for future success.
NBA G League Achievements
The franchise qualified for the playoffs during the 2020–21 season as the Erie BayHawks and again in their inaugural Birmingham season. These playoff appearances highlight the team’s competitive potential within the league.
Conference Achievements
Competing in the Eastern Conference, the Squadron have demonstrated growth and resilience, finishing their first Birmingham season with strong fan support and competitive playoff participation.
Divisional Achievements
Specific divisional titles or achievements have not been recorded, but the team continues to develop its competitive standing within the NBA G League structure.
Series Achievements
The Birmingham Squadron remain focused on building their legacy within the NBA G League, aiming to enhance player development and achieve greater competitive success in upcoming seasons.
