A Star Player with a Remarkable Journey
Let’s talk about CJ McCollum, one of the most exciting players in the NBA today. CJ signed a two-year, $63,999,999 contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, making him an integral part of the team. With a whopping $63,999,999 guaranteed, his average annual salary clocks in at a cool $32 million. That’s some serious commitment from the Pelicans, and it shows just how valuable he is to their lineup. But it’s not just about the money—it’s about the skill, dedication, and passion CJ brings to the court every time he plays.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Strong
Life as a professional athlete isn’t always smooth sailing, and CJ McCollum knows that firsthand. Recently, the Pelicans have been on a roll, even without CJ in the lineup. Back in November, he was diagnosed with a collapsed lung, which forced him to sit out for a while. But you know what they say—what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. CJ didn’t let this setback define him. Instead, he focused on recovery and getting back to doing what he loves: playing basketball. It’s moments like these that remind us why fans admire him so much.
Breaking Down His Stats
If you’re into numbers, CJ McCollum’s stats are nothing short of impressive. ESPN Sports has all the details, including his lifetime stats as a shooting guard for the New Orleans Pelicans. You’ll find everything from points per game to assists, rebounds, and more. In his college years, CJ was already making waves, averaging 21.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game during his four seasons with the Lehigh Mountain Hawks. And let’s not forget his rookie year, where he scored 19.1 points and pulled down 5.0 rebounds per game. These numbers don’t lie—he’s consistently been a force to reckon with on the court.
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From College Star to NBA Sensation
Before he became an NBA sensation, CJ McCollum was a standout player at Lehigh University. During his sophomore year, he averaged 21.8 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, setting the stage for even greater things to come. As a junior, he earned the Patriot League Player of the Year award, a title that many believed would lead him straight to the NBA Draft. But CJ had other plans. He decided to stay at Lehigh for his senior year, proving that he wasn’t just about the accolades—he was about mastering his craft.
The Moment That Changed Everything
CJ McCollum announced himself to the world in the 2012 NCAA Tournament when Lehigh pulled off one of the biggest upsets in basketball history by defeating Duke. That game put him on the map, showcasing his incredible talent and determination. It was the moment fans realized they were watching something special. And while he was busy building his career, CJ also met his future wife, Elise Esposito, during his time at Lehigh. Their relationship has been a source of strength and support for him both on and off the court.
Family and Life Beyond the Game
CJ McCollum isn’t just a basketball player—he’s also a devoted family man. He and his wife, Elise Esposito, have been together for years, and she often shares glimpses of their life together on social media. From vacations to family moments, it’s clear that their bond is strong. Off the court, CJ also has a passion for winemaking. He partnered with Adelsheim Vineyard, a renowned Oregon winery, to create McCollum Heritage 91, a testament to his love for innovation and creativity outside of basketball.
Back to Action and Future Plans
Recently, CJ was ruled out for a game against the Thunder due to personal reasons, but don’t worry—he’ll be back in action soon. Fans eagerly await his return because, let’s face it, the Pelicans just aren’t the same without him. Whether it’s scoring buckets, dishing out assists, or leading the team with his energy, CJ McCollum is a player who elevates everyone around him. As he continues to break records and climb the ranks, keep an eye out for when he surpasses legends like Kobe Bryant in career points.
Stay Up-to-Date with CJ McCollum
For the latest on CJ McCollum, including stats, news, and game highlights, you can follow along on ESPN or other sports platforms. You’ll find detailed game logs, field goal percentages, three-pointers, free throws, rebounds, and more. If you’re a fan of the New Orleans Pelicans, knowing CJ’s stats is like having insider knowledge into the team’s success. And if you’re curious about his personal life, you’ll find plenty of content online, from interviews to social media updates. There’s no denying that CJ McCollum is more than just a player—he’s a role model, a family man, and a true champion in every sense of the word.
