Neumann Media was up for several awards and because of it, I was able to have the experience of a lifetime.
The Mullen family was generous enough to fund a trip to send some knights to New Orleans, the hosting city of the Fall National College Media Convention, where these awards would be presented.
It was at this convention where Neumann Media took home 10 awards, 8 of which had gone to NeuPress.
I was lucky enough to be one of the few who went along on the trip.
When I was first prompted about the trip, I was told there would be time for us to do whatever we want.
Instantly, my first thought was going to an NBA game.
My eyes lit up when I saw the New Orleans Pelicans would be playing against the Indiana Pacers during our time in New Orleans.
I barely planned for this trip. Half my time was spent looking at ticket prices.
They were dirt cheap. You wouldn’t ever be able to see these prices in Philadelphia.
I don’t travel often so I knew I had to jump on this opportunity.
I found a seat in the 5th row, in the middle of the court, right behind the scorer’s table.
Go ahead and think about how much that would cost in the Wells Fargo Center.
At the cheapest? About $400. But that can easily range all the way up to $1000+.
Now get this. This seat in New Orleans was only $150.
Come the night of the game, I walk through the arena, looking for my section.
I walk down the steps, with every step making it harder and harder to believe that this is where I’ll be seated.
My jaw literally dropped. It felt that I shouldn’t even be there.
Nothing could wipe the smile off my face, and nothing could get me to move.
I was right there, and I could see everything. I could see where the players were looking and could hear them communicating as they ran across the floor.
I was entranced. I lost track of the score.
The only time I touched my phone was to take pictures.
I didn’t want to miss a second of action, but I certainly wanted to capture the moment. I know I won’t be sitting this close any time soon.
This was also a special night for me because this was my first time going to an NBA game outside of Philadelphia.
People-watching was something I enjoyed.
It was so interesting to think how this team has their own culture and community just like my 76ers at home.
I loved hearing all of the shouts from fans and the emotion that filled their faces.
After every big play, everyone I could see stand up and erupt in cheers, especially when Zion Williamson went up to dunk.
I never really cared for the pelicans. I never see too many things about them on the internet. I was convinced this team didn’t even have fans.
I was proved wrong.
Before I knew it, I was right alongside the other Pelicans fans, cheering at every chance I got.
I wish the game could’ve lasted all night but at least it ended on a high note.
The game ended with everyone on their feet, cheering on the Pelicans after narrowly edging out the Pacers.
I can’t begin to explain how grateful I am toward the Mullen family and Neumann University for allowing me to be in New Orleans at this time.
I won’t forget this experience and it will be hard sitting anywhere else for the next game I go to.
