Pelicans Coach’s Three-Word Remark on Jose Alvarado

Pelicans Coach’s Three-Word Remark on Jose Alvarado

Pelicans associate head coach James Borrego praised Jose Alvarado for his performance in the team’s win over the Hornets.

full team effort 😤 pic.twitter.com/IW1XqLnEDG

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) March 31, 2025

The New Orleans Pelicans were short-handed in their 98-94 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday. Just before the game, the team announced that head coach Willie Green would not be coaching due to personal reasons, and associate head coach James Borrego stepped in for him.

Despite being down by nine points at halftime, New Orleans rallied in the second half, limiting the Hornets to just 42 points. With 30 seconds remaining in the game, Alvarado gave the Pelicans the lead with an And-1 layup. He finished with 12 points and 4 assists.

After the game, Coach Borrego shared his admiration for Alvarado’s clutch performance. “He’s a winner,” Borrego said. “He loves being in those moments.”

"He's a winner"

Coach Borrego on Jose in the final minutes pic.twitter.com/CEvH8YzQ2i

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) March 31, 2025

Alvarado’s three-point play was followed by an assist to Keion Brooks, securing the win for New Orleans.

The Pelicans have faced numerous injuries this season, with Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Dejounte Murray all lost for the season. Zion Williamson missed his fifth consecutive game due to back soreness, and CJ McCollum sat out with a sore foot. Jordan Hawkins was also unavailable due to an ankle injury.

Alvarado has played in 50 games this season, starting 17, and is averaging career highs of 9.6 points and 4.6 assists. The New York native signed a multi-year extension with the Pelicans prior to the season.