CJ McCollum, born on September 19, 1991, is an American professional basketball player for the New Orleans Pelicans of the National Basketball Association (NBA).<\/p>
University Career: McCollum attended Lehigh University, where he played college basketball for the Mountain Hawks. Despite coming from a relatively small conference (Patriot League), McCollum garnered significant attention for his scoring prowess and leadership. During his freshman year, he led Lehigh to an NCAA Tournament appearance. His junior year was particularly highlighted, as he averaged 21.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, leading the nation in scoring for a significant portion of the season. He became the first player in Patriot League history to be named Player of the Year multiple times. He declared for the NBA draft after his junior season, foregoing his senior year.<\/p>
Drafts: CJ McCollum was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers with the 10th overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft. This made him the first player to be drafted in the lottery from Lehigh University and the Patriot League. His selection marked a significant moment for small-conference college basketball programs, highlighting that talent could be found outside of traditional powerhouses.<\/p>
NBA Career and News: After being drafted by the Trail Blazers, McCollum initially faced a challenging rookie season, dealing with injuries and limited playing time. However, he steadily improved, showcasing his offensive versatility and becoming a crucial part of the Blazers’ backcourt alongside Damian Lillard. Their partnership, often referred to as “Rip City’s Backcourt,” became one of the most dynamic scoring duos in the league.<\/p>
In the 2015-2016 season, McCollum had a breakout year, earning the NBA’s Most Improved Player award. He consistently demonstrated his ability to score efficiently from all areas of the court, utilizing his precise mid-range game, three-point shooting, and strong finishes at the rim. He also developed into a capable playmaker, assisting on baskets and creating opportunities for his teammates.<\/p>
Throughout his tenure with the Trail Blazers, McCollum was a consistent scorer and a key offensive engine. He helped lead the team to multiple playoff appearances, including a trip to the Western Conference Finals in 2019. Despite his individual success, the Blazers struggled to advance and reach the NBA Finals.<\/p>
In February 2022, McCollum was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in a significant mid-season move. This trade marked a new chapter in his career, as he took on a more prominent leadership role with the Pelicans. He quickly made an impact, helping guide the young Pelicans roster to a playoff berth. His scoring, experience, and veteran presence proved invaluable to the team’s development.<\/p>
Off the court, McCollum is known for his articulate and thoughtful commentary on basketball and broader social issues. He has a strong interest in journalism, having earned a degree in the field from Lehigh. He hosts a popular podcast called “Pull Up with CJ McCollum,” where he interviews other athletes, coaches, and personalities, offering insights into the world of professional basketball.<\/p>
Personal Data: CJ McCollum is married to Elise Esposito. He is known for his commitment to education and personal development, attributes he frequently discusses in his public appearances and on his podcast. He has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, demonstrating a dedication to giving back to the community. His intelligence and eloquence have made him a respected voice within the NBA and beyond.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":48761,"template":"","categories":[1],"class_list":["post-48760","nba-player","type-nba-player","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n