The Smoothie King Center fell silent before the Pelicans faced the Wizards on Friday night – the NBA team’s first home game since the deadly terror attack in New Orleans.

Fans and players remembered the 14 people who were killed in the early hours of New Year’s Day, including Matthew Tenedorio who worked for both the New Orleans Pelicans and Saints.

Before Friday’s game, a moment’s silence was held out of respect for those impacted when Shamsud-Din Jabbar rammed his truck into a crowd of revelers. 

Ahead of tipoff, a message went out over the arena speakers. ‘We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the victims and continued prayers for those injured in the attack,’ it said.

The Pelicans made particular reference to ‘video production team member and Pelicans and Saints colleague Matthew Tenedorio’.

Jose Alvarado took a knee as the Pelicans paid tribute to the victims of the recent terror attack

Fans and players remembered the 14 people who were killed while celebrating the New Year

The Smoothie King Center fell silent before the Pelicans faced the Wizards on Friday night

Fans were then asked to fall silent ‘in remembrance of those lost and all who were affected by this tragedy.’

Players from the Pelicans and Wizards lined up at opposite ends of the court as the arena lights dimmed before the Star Spangled Banner appeared on the jumbotron.

New Orleans ended its 11-game losing streak by defeating Washington 132-120, with CJ McCollum leading the way with 50 points. 

No other Pelicans player scored more than 17, as McCollum took over the Smoothie King Center. 

The Pelicans improved to 6-29 with the victory, while the Wizards fell to 6-26 as they could not win their second road game of the season. 

After the game ended a few New Orleans players spoke out on the tragic events of New Year’s Day. 

‘I think there’s a lot of things that happen in the world and you get a unique perspective of what’s really important and how fragile life can be,’ McCollum said. ‘So I just want to send my thoughts and condolences.’ 

Hours earlier, it emerged that Pelicans star Zion Williamson had donated $100,000 to help victims of the deadly attack.

‘As a father, son, and someone who loves this community, this hit me hard. This isn’t just about money – but standing together and making sure no one feels alone,’ he told ESPN on Friday.

His $100,000 donation will go towards the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Tragedy fund.

On Thursday, meanwhile, the Saints and Pelicans released a joint statement on the death of Tenedorio, ‘a valued member of the ASM New Orleans video production team.’

‘Matthew was young, talented, and had a bright future, helping deliver quality content for both the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans,’ it read.

‘Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with the Tenedorio family and everyone affected by this senseless act of terrorism.’

Earlier this week, New Orleans Saints star Cam Jordan donated $25,000 to the relief effort. And on Friday he came together with Pelicans guard CJ McCollum to send an inspiring message to the city. 

It was the NBA team’s first home game since the deadly terror attack in New Orleans 

Matthew Tenedorio, who worked for both the Pelicans and Saints, was among those killed

The tragic attack comes two decades after New Orleans was devastated by Hurricane Katrina, which flooded the city and killed 1,392 people.

McCollum, Jordan and Saints owner Gayle Benson narrated a video message in which they vowed that the city would not be defeated by this latest tragedy.

‘Dear New Orleans,’ they said. ‘We have previously experienced the unimaginable. We have all lived through and overcame unspeakable tragedy

‘But horror and heartbreak did not define us then. And it will not define us now. What does define us is the way we spring into action. Literally, rolling up our sleeves to do whatever it takes to heal our community, that’s who we are. It’s who we have always been.

‘So while our hearts may be heavy, the defiant spirit of New Orleans will never be defeated. Our Superdome will always be a place where memories are made and where fans become family. And we will get through this like we always do – together.’