Who is CJ McCollum? CJ McCollum is a professional basketball player known for his scoring ability, sharp shooting, and leadership on the court. Born on September 19, 1991, in Canton, Ohio, McCollum has made a name for himself in the NBA as a standout guard for the New Orleans Pelicans. He played college basketball at Lehigh University, where he gained national attention by leading his team to an upset victory over Duke in the 2012 NCAA Tournament. Drafted 10th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013, McCollum quickly became a key player, forming a dynamic backcourt duo with Damian Lillard. Off the court, he is also known for his journalism work and philanthropy, making him a well-rounded figure in sports and beyond.
Early Life and Background
Before becoming an NBA star, CJ McCollum had a fascinating journey. Here are some intriguing facts about his early life.
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CJ McCollum was born on September 19, 1991, in Canton, Ohio. Growing up in a sports-loving family, he developed a passion for basketball early on.
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His full name is Christian James McCollum. The nickname "CJ" comes from the initials of his first and middle names.
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McCollum attended GlenOak High School in Canton, where he played basketball and quickly made a name for himself as a standout player.
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Despite his talent, McCollum was considered undersized for a basketball player, standing at just 5'2" as a freshman in high school. He experienced a significant growth spurt later, reaching 6'3" by his senior year.
College Career
CJ McCollum's college career at Lehigh University was nothing short of spectacular. Here are some key highlights.
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McCollum chose to attend Lehigh University, a smaller school, over more prominent programs because he believed he could make a more significant impact there.
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As a freshman, he led Lehigh to a Patriot League Championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance, earning the title of Patriot League Rookie of the Year.
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In 2012, McCollum gained national attention when he led Lehigh to an upset victory over Duke University in the NCAA Tournament. He scored 30 points in that game, showcasing his scoring ability.
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By the time he graduated, McCollum was Lehigh's all-time leading scorer with 2,361 points. He also earned a degree in Journalism, demonstrating his commitment to academics.
NBA Career
CJ McCollum's transition to the NBA was marked by hard work and determination. Here are some facts about his professional journey.
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McCollum was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers with the 10th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft. His selection marked the beginning of a successful NBA career.
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He faced challenges early in his NBA career, including a broken foot that limited his playing time during his rookie season. Despite this setback, he remained determined to succeed.
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In the 2015-2016 season, McCollum had a breakout year, averaging 20.8 points per game and winning the NBA Most Improved Player Award.
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McCollum formed a dynamic backcourt duo with Damian Lillard, earning the nickname "The Splash Brothers of the Northwest" for their scoring prowess.
Off the Court
McCollum's impact extends beyond the basketball court. Here are some interesting facts about his life off the court.
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McCollum is known for his philanthropic efforts. He established the CJ McCollum Dream Centers, which provide educational resources and technology to underserved communities.
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He has a passion for journalism and media. McCollum hosts a podcast called "Pull Up with CJ McCollum," where he discusses various topics, including sports and culture.
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McCollum is an avid wine enthusiast. He even launched his own wine label, McCollum Heritage 91, which reflects his interest in winemaking.
Personal Life
CJ McCollum's personal life is as intriguing as his professional career. Here are some facts about his life outside of basketball.
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McCollum married his long-time girlfriend, Elise Esposito, in 2020. The couple had been together since their college days at Lehigh University.
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He is a dog lover and has a French Bulldog named Fiona, who frequently appears on his social media accounts.
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McCollum is known for his love of reading. He often shares book recommendations with his fans and encourages young people to develop a love for reading.
CJ McCollum: A True Basketball Star
CJ McCollum's journey from a small-town kid to an NBA star is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, hard work, and passion for basketball have made him a standout player. From his impressive college career at Lehigh University to his success with the Portland Trail Blazers, McCollum's story is a testament to perseverance.
Beyond the court, CJ's commitment to education and community service shows his character. He's not just a player; he's a role model. His involvement in media, including his podcast and journalism work, highlights his versatility and intelligence.
McCollum's story reminds us that with determination and a strong work ethic, anything is possible. Whether you're a basketball fan or not, there's something to admire in CJ McCollum's journey. Keep an eye on him; his story is far from over.
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