Saints, Pelicans Gayle Benson Says She Still Plans on Being Called ‘Owner’

Saints and Pelicans Owner Gayle Benson says she still plans on being called an “owner,” despite the NBA moving away from using the term.

Earlier in the week, TMZ Sports reported NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s announcement that the league had moved away from using the term owner, citing concerns some players had over racial connotations associated with the word. However, those changes were made a the league level, only, and team owners retain discretion over their own titles and how others will refer to them.

As for Gayle Benson, she plans on still being called an owner.

Benson told the New Orleans Advocate:

As with any word, phrase or expression, interpretations can be perceived differently. That is in many ways why diversity, inclusion and openness is so important to companies and society. As with any expression, my intention and the intentions of the organization I am responsible for is never to be insensitive or insulting.

I truly believe daily actions speak very loudly, and it is my sincere hope that the players and staff know how much I care for them and their families. I sincerely hope no term that attempts to define my corporate standing would in any negative way suggest a lack of caring, respect or admiration for that they accomplish every day – leaders, teammates, colleagues, parents, mentors, citizens.

I have said over and over I don’t see myself so much as an owner but more of a caretaker to the incredible assets that I have been so fortunate to lead,” she said in the statement. “My intention has and continues to be building on my husband’s legacy, making the assets better and creating a better community for our employees, fans and citizens.

The owners of the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and Golden State Warriors, have also said they plan on still being referred to as an owner.

Follow Dylan Gwinn on Twitter @themightygwinn