Summer League Showdown
The New Orleans Pelicans broke a streak of summer league futility by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 95-91, a result that underscores the team’s renewed energy after going winless in last year's Vegas circuit.
Melvin Council Jr. made his NBA summer league debut for the Pelicans, contributing six points and showing the playmaking instincts that defined his college career. He is currently on an Exhibit 10 contract, a pathway that allows him to compete for a roster spot while earning a modest salary.
Veteran big man Hunter Dickinson stole the spotlight with a game-high 21 points, including three three-pointers that highlighted his expanded shooting range. Dickinson, who signed a two-way contract with New Orleans for the second consecutive season, demonstrated the progress he made from a 50-of-128 three-point performance in the G League last year.
Other former Jayhawks also turned heads across the league. Tre White scored 13 points for the Miami Heat in a loss to Orlando, while Zeko Mayo added 11 points in Atlanta’s victory over Brooklyn, each illustrating the breadth of Kansas talent spread across multiple franchises.
The performances echo the statistical foundations built during their college years. Council averaged 12.7 points, 5.1 assists and 5.0 rebounds during the 2025-26 season at Kansas, while Dickinson’s three-point shooting saw a significant uptick, reflecting a deliberate focus on perimeter versatility.
With summer league play serving as a proving ground, the Pelicans and their rivals are evaluating which prospects can transition to regular‑season roles. For Council and Dickinson, the stakes are particularly high, as contract decisions and roster spots hinge on continued demonstration of impact on the court.