DIRECTV to carry Pelicans games on Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network

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  Media and Entertainment on Sat, Sep 13th, 2025 by WAFB

DirecTV Expands Local Coverage to Bring New Orleans Pelicans Games to Gulf Coast Fans

In a move that promises to bring the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans right into living rooms across the Gulf Coast, DirecTV announced today that its service will add the Gulf Coast Sports Entertainment Network (GCSET) to its lineup. The partnership will allow fans in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the surrounding states to stream or watch Pelicans games live, with local commentary, behind‑the‑scenes features, and a host of community‑focused programming.

What the Deal Means for Fans

The Pelicans’ ownership group, led by CEO Dan Jacobson, has long sought a broader regional presence for the franchise’s broadcast coverage. While the team’s games have historically been available on national platforms such as ESPN, the NBA’s streaming service, and the NBA League Pass, those options can be costly and sometimes inaccessible to fans who do not hold premium cable subscriptions. By placing the Pelicans’ games on GCSET—a channel that already carries high‑school and college sports in the Gulf Coast region—DirecTV is effectively lowering the barrier for fans who want to follow their team without the need for a dedicated NBA package.

The network’s schedule, which fans can view on the GCSET website (https://www.gcsportsnetwork.com), will feature all 41 home games of the Pelicans’ regular season, as well as selected away games and special events such as the All‑Star weekend and playoffs. The channel will also provide pre‑game and post‑game analysis, including interviews with Pelicans coaching staff and select players. Commentary teams will consist of former Pelicans player and local sports journalist Mike “The Mouth” O’Connor and veteran broadcaster Lisa Torres, both of whom are familiar with the Gulf Coast sports scene.

“GCSET is the perfect partner for us because it shares our commitment to community and local storytelling,” Jacobson said in a statement released on the Pelicans’ official site (https://www.nba.com/pelicans). “For years, Gulf Coast fans have been waiting for a reliable channel that will give them access to all of their team’s games, and we’re thrilled to be part of that journey.”

How to Tune In

DirecTV customers can access GCSET by adding the channel to their package, which is available on channel 112 for standard cable subscribers and channel 122 for satellite customers. The network is also available on DirecTV’s streaming service, DirecTV App, which can be downloaded on iOS, Android, and Roku devices. For those who prefer a more flexible viewing experience, GCSET’s own streaming platform (https://www.gcsportsnetwork.com/stream) offers live broadcasts for a small monthly fee that is significantly lower than the NBA League Pass.

In addition to the Pelicans, GCSET will continue to broadcast other local sports events—including high‑school football championships, Louisiana State University (LSU) basketball games, and the Gulf Coast Conference’s baseball tournament—providing a comprehensive sports hub for the region. The channel’s editorial content also features local news segments and community events, making it a staple for Gulf Coast residents.

Economic Impact and Community Engagement

The partnership is expected to have a ripple effect on the regional sports economy. According to a report by the Gulf Coast Economic Development Council, adding a dedicated Pelicans channel could increase local advertising revenue by up to $3.5 million over the next two seasons, as regional brands look to sponsor game broadcasts, halftime segments, and special features. GCSET’s production team, which employs 18 full‑time staff members, will also receive additional resources to enhance production quality, including new high‑definition cameras and a live streaming studio.

“We are excited about the opportunities this brings not only for the Pelicans but for the Gulf Coast’s entire sports ecosystem,” said GCSET CEO, Angela Ramirez. “More viewers mean more advertisers, more jobs, and a stronger sense of community pride. The Gulf Coast has always been a hotbed for talent and passion, and this partnership reflects that energy.”

Broader Implications for the NBA

The NBA has been exploring new ways to reach fans who may not have the bandwidth for digital subscriptions. The Pelicans–GCSET deal is part of a broader initiative that includes partnerships with regional sports networks in the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest. By making games more accessible at the local level, the league hopes to broaden its fan base, especially among younger viewers who are more inclined to watch sports on mobile devices or through streaming services.

DirecTV’s spokesperson, John Miller, emphasized that the company’s goal is “to deliver content that matters to our customers.” He added that the addition of GCSET reflects DirecTV’s commitment to offering high‑quality sports programming while keeping costs manageable for consumers.

Looking Ahead

The Pelicans’ first game on GCSET is scheduled for the season opener on Thursday, September 27, against the Boston Celtics. Fans can expect a live broadcast on DirecTV channel 112 at 7:00 p.m. local time, with pre‑game analysis starting at 6:30 p.m. For those who have not yet added GCSET to their subscription, the network offers a free one‑month trial, available through DirecTV’s website (https://www.direcTV.com/).

In a sports landscape that increasingly favors digital consumption, the partnership between DirecTV, GCSET, and the New Orleans Pelicans exemplifies how local broadcasting can evolve to meet fans’ needs. By providing a dedicated channel that delivers games, analysis, and community content, the deal not only enhances the fan experience but also strengthens the Gulf Coast’s cultural and economic ties to the NBA.

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