NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – When the Pelicans take the court for Summer League in Las Vegas on Thursday, the roster will have a couple of names that Louisiana college hoops fans are familiar with.
McNeese State star Christian Shumate and LSU center Will Baker will both get a shot to showcase their skills in a taste of pro action.
Shumate wrapped up his collegiate career this past season, helping to propel McNeese to its second consecutive Southland Conference tournament championship, as well as its second consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance and first-ever tournament win, a 69-67 victory over powerhouse Clemson.
Shumate averaged 12.5 points and over 8 rebounds in his four seasons with Will Wade and the Cowboys and ranks 3rd all-time in rebounds and 11th all-time in scoring.
“I have grown to call Louisiana home… I have been through some of the lowest times in my life and some of the highest times in my life in Louisiana… I am happy to be supporting for Lake Charles”
— Christian Shumate on Louisiana pic.twitter.com/WI1DR2JFVf
— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) July 8, 2025
His Summer League appearance follows Shahada Wells from last season, where he suited up for the Houston Rockets.
7-footer Baker averaged 11 points and 4.8 rebounds in his senior year at LSU, and he shot 50.2 percent from the field and 36 percent from 3-point range.
Last season, Baker played 27 games for the Iowa Wolves in the G-League. He averaged 4.4 points and 2.3 rebounds in limited playing time.
The Pelicans will face the Timberwolves on Thursday at 2:30 p.m. on the Gulf Coast Sports and Entertainment Network.
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