By the final month of the 2021-22 season, it was common to hear thousands of fans in the Smoothie King Center joining in unison, literally singing the praises of an undrafted rookie they’d come to adore. While scanning the spectator seats in April, it also didn’t take long to spot dozens of No. 5 jerseys and “Not On Herb” T-shirts, representing the boundless love and appreciation for a defensive-minded, second-round draft pick.
There were many unforeseen aspects of the New Orleans Pelicans’ unique campaign, but near the top of that list was the fact that a 6-foot guard initially on a G League contract would emerge as a beloved local figure.