The former Pontchartrain Center enters a new era as Waste Pro secures the venue’s first naming rights agreement, bringing a fresh identity to professional basketball in Kenner.

STWF SPORTS | KENNER, La. | NOVEMBER 12, 2026  – A new chapter in Kenner’s sports and entertainment history is officially underway as the Laketown Squadron, NBA G League affiliate of the New Orleans Pelicans, announced a landmark naming rights partnership with Waste Pro, transforming the historic Pontchartrain Center into the Waste Pro Civic Center.

The agreement marks the first naming rights partnership in the venue’s history since opening in 1991, signaling an important milestone as the facility prepares to welcome professional basketball to Jefferson Parish.

The newly branded arena will make its official debut Saturday, November 14, when the Squadron hosts the Mexico City Capitanes at 11 a.m. CT in the organization’s inaugural home game.

Historic Partnership Brings New Identity to Kenner

For more than three decades, the Pontchartrain Center has served as a gathering place for community celebrations, conventions and entertainment events.

Now, the facility enters a new era with a partnership connecting professional basketball, corporate investment and community engagement.

The naming rights agreement establishes Waste Pro as the venue’s official naming partner while strengthening the company’s presence throughout the greater New Orleans region.

The Waste Pro Civic Center will accommodate approximately 2,000 basketball fans and host all 24 Squadron home games during the 2026-27 NBA G League season.

The partnership represents a significant step in establishing a permanent professional basketball identity in Kenner.

Arena Renovations Enhance Fan Experience

Ahead of the Squadron’s inaugural season, the facility underwent renovations designed to accommodate professional basketball operations and improve the spectator experience.

Improvements include upgraded locker rooms, enhanced audio systems, new lighting and video boards.

These additions are intended to provide players, coaches and fans with a modern basketball environment while maintaining the venue’s longstanding community identity.

The upgraded facility will also support the Squadron’s basketball operations as the franchise develops young talent within the New Orleans Pelicans organization.

With seating for 2,000 spectators, Laketown will have an opportunity to create an intimate home-court atmosphere where fans can experience NBA G League action up close.

Waste Pro Emphasizes Community Connections

Beyond the naming rights agreement, Waste Pro’s leadership emphasized the personal and community significance of the partnership.

Jesse Murphy, Waste Pro’s regional vice president and shareholder, highlighted his connection to Kenner and the former Pontchartrain Center.

As a Kenner native, Murphy recalled attending events at the facility throughout his childhood, including his graduation celebration.

The partnership now allows Waste Pro to support a new chapter in the building’s history while contributing to local sports and entertainment.

The company views its involvement as an opportunity to strengthen community relationships throughout Jefferson Parish and the greater New Orleans area.

Thanksgiving Night Partnership Announced

Waste Pro’s involvement will extend beyond naming rights.

The company will also serve as the presenting partner for Laketown’s Thanksgiving Night matchup against the Osceola Magic on Wednesday, November 25.

Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT.

The holiday matchup will provide another opportunity for local families and basketball fans to experience the newly renovated venue.

Tickets for the game are available through Laketown Squadron’s ticketing page.

Partnership Expands Waste Pro’s Regional Presence

Waste Pro USA, Inc., headquartered in Longwood, Florida, operates across 12 southeastern states.

The company employs more than 5,700 waste management professionals and serves over two million residential customers and 100,000 commercial customers.

With approximately 140 operating locations and nearly 280 exclusive municipal contracts and franchises, Waste Pro has established a significant presence throughout the Southeast.

The company projects annual revenues exceeding $1.6 billion in 2026.

Its partnership with Laketown connects that regional footprint with professional basketball and community entertainment.

STWF Sports Final Takeaway

The transformation of the Pontchartrain Center into the Waste Pro Civic Center represents more than a venue name change.

It marks a milestone for professional basketball in Kenner and highlights the growing role of community partnerships in supporting NBA G League franchises.

For the Laketown Squadron, the renovated arena provides a foundation for establishing a competitive home environment and building a loyal fan base.

With a historic naming rights agreement, facility improvements and an inaugural home game approaching, the Squadron is preparing to introduce a new era of professional basketball to Jefferson Parish.

Saturday’s matchup against Mexico City will serve as the first major milestone for the newly named Waste Pro Civic Center.

STWF Sports | Laketown Squadron Coverage | NBA G League 2026–27 Season