METAIRIE, La. (AP) Monty Williams wore a white hard hat with a New Orleans Pelicans logo on it as he toured the construction site that will become his team's practice center next season, and discussed the benefits of not just its amenities, but also its location alongside the practice fields of the NFL's Saints.

At other NBA training sites, Williams noted, "Nobody's going to walk outside and see coach (Sean) Payton or (receiver Marques) Colston walking across the parking lot, (tight end Jimmy) Graham or (quarterback Drew) Brees."

"I think that breeds a good atmosphere when you can walk outside and see the best of the best at what they do, collaborate on ideas. They're all rooting for each other," Williams said. "That's what makes this place special."