Oklahoma Saints Fans Say Super Bowl is About More Than a Game

By Dave Jordan, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Even though New Orleans Saints fans are living in Oklahoma, many say their heart is still in the Big Easy, which for the last couple of years has been uneasy thanks to lingering effects of Hurricane Katrina.

But now, the Saints have given New Orleans new hope and - to some extent - new life.

The Saints finished their strong NFL season by running over Minnesota and cementing their status as Super Bowl contenders. For their fans, it couldn't have come at a better time.

"I'm a big Saint's fan. You should have seen me when they won. I ran around the whole building," said Ken Mills, owner and head chef of Cajun King.

Cajun King is Mills new Warr Acres restaurant where he is keeping his culture of New Orleans alive by cooking up Cajun cuisine.

Mat Gillory, who is from New Orleans, said he loves his new life in Oklahoma City after coming to Oklahoma during Hurricane Katrina.

"The people here have been so welcoming. It's just been a really good experience being up here and making this my new home," Gillory said.

And Gillory said he too is cheering on his beloved Saints this Super Bowl Sunday.

"I think a win would be a great for the spirit of the city, the people. The Saints are such a huge part that city," Gillory said.

And party plans are being made in Oklahoma with one venue already on standby.

"If they win, it's going to be the biggest party at Cajun King," Mills said.

Super Bowl coverage begins on NEWS 9 starting at 5 p.m. on Sunday.