NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The New Orleans Hornets are moving ahead with plans to change their name to the Pelicans next season, people familiar with the decision said.

The people spoke to The Associated Press Wednesday on condition of anonymity because the Hornets have not announced the name change. The people say that is expected to come Thursday, when club also will unveil the proposed new color scheme of blue, gold and red.

Hornets owner Tom Benson has said since buying the NBA club last spring that he wanted a new name representing New Orleans and Louisiana.