Former McNeese Star Christian Shumate Joins Pelicans Summer League Roster

Lake Charles, Louisiana (KNGT-FM) - If McNeese fans are tuning in to the Pelicans Summer League over the next few weeks, they will see a familiar name, and maybe even a few "Shu-Slams". The Pelicans announced their summer league roster and Christian Shumate will be featured on the team.

This marks the second year in a row a McNeese player has earned a spot on an NBA Summer League team. Last year, it was Shahada Wells who suited up for the Houston Rockets.

Shumate helped lead McNeese to two of the greatest seasons of basketball McNeese had ever seen, capping it off in 2025 with the program's first win in the NCAA Tournament after the Cowboys defeated Clemson 69-67 in Providence, RI.

Shumate will now embark on his professional journey and will suit up for the New Orleans Pelicans during their summer league games and try to earn a spot within the organization.

The Pelicans' summer league squad is loaded with talent, including three recent draft picks: Jeremiah Fears (7th overall), Derik Queen (13th overall), and Micah Peavy (40th overall). The team will be coached by Pelicans assistant Corey Brewer and also features several two-way players and returners from last season’s roster.

Summer League training camp runs July 6-8 in New Orleans. The Pelicans open up play on Thursday, July 10, against the Minnesota Timberwolves, followed by matchups against the Lakers (July 12), Trail Blazers (July 15), and Thunder (July 16).

The full Summer League tournament features 76 games over 11 days, and every game will be shown on ESPN platforms or NBA TV, and can also be streamed on the ESPN app.