A New Chapter for Mizzou’s Rising Star
Shawn Phillips Jr., a 6‑foot‑10 center who spent three seasons at the University of Missouri, announced his first professional contract with the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday, marking a significant step in his basketball journey.
During the 2026‑27 campaign he averaged 7.6 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, placing him fifth in the SEC and 69th nationally with 1.52 blocks per game. His 68.3% field‑goal accuracy ranks second in school history, and over 106 collegiate appearances he amassed 561 points, 442 rebounds and 114 blocks.
The deal comes on the same day that his teammate Mark Mitchell secured a contract with the Denver Nuggets, making the pair the sixth and seventh Tigers to sign with NBA franchises in just four years under Coach Dennis Gates. Both players will now pursue their professional ambitions in the league that has long been a destination for Missouri’s top talent.
Coach Gates, who has cultivated a pipeline from Columbia to the NBA, praised the graduates for their work ethic and highlighted the program’s growing reputation as a springboard for elite prospects. The moves underscore a broader trend of Mizzou alumni transitioning smoothly into the NBA’s competitive landscape.