The New Orleans Pelicans set a new franchise record, scoring an astounding 153 points to outshine the Utah Jazz in a 153-124 triumph on Tuesday night. Spearheading this remarkable feat was CJ McCollum, who showcased his sharpshooting skills by going 9 of 13 from beyond the arc, tying his season-best with 33 points.
The Pelicans surpassed their previous scoring record of 149 points, set against the Sacramento Kings in October 2018. This scoring spree was not just about individual brilliance but also a testament to their teamwork, as evidenced by a franchise-record 41 assists on 60 made field goals.
Zion Williamson, playing a crucial role as a point forward, contributed significantly to the team’s success. He finished with 17 points and a career-high 11 assists, demonstrating his versatility and willingness to share the ball. Williamson, who has occasionally played the point position during end-of-quarter scenarios, embraced the role right from the game’s commencement, especially in tandem with teammate Brandon Ingram.
Other key contributors included Herb Jones, who added 22 points, and Brandon Ingram and Jonas Valanciunas, who chipped in with 18 and 17 points, respectively. McCollum’s performance was particularly noteworthy as he went 11 of 17 from the floor, helping the Pelicans achieve an impressive 57.1% shooting from the field.
McCollum attributed his energized performance to a beneficial break comprising three days of rest, practice, and film study following a disappointing loss to Phoenix last Saturday. The Pelicans, with 19 assists in the first half alone, eight of which came from Williamson, displayed a fast-paced game and remarkable accuracy. They shot 29 of 49 (59.2%) from the field in the first half, including a 12 of 22 performance from the 3-point line. This was a stark contrast to their previous game against the Suns, where they struggled with only 10 of 42 3-point attempts.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans are set to host Oklahoma City on Friday, carrying forward the momentum from this record-breaking victory. This game not only marks a high point in their current season but also signifies their potential as a formidable force in the league, capable of high-scoring and efficient team basketball.
