Not Enough Star Power Results in Pels' Loss

Chrissy Smith • January 8, 2023

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DALLAS -- Missing their three top scorers proved to be too much to overcome for the New Orleans Pelicans as they lost 127-117 to the Dallas Mavericks.

With CJ McCollum (rest), Brandon Ingram (toe), and Zion Williamson (hamstring) missing Saturday’s game, the remaining starters and second-string kept the game competitive, but it was obvious Dallas was in control from the beginning.

The three-ball was a problem for the Pelicans as Dallas finished 13-of-29, while New Orleans was just 5-of-29 for an underwhelming 17%. Although the Pels got several good looks, there was a hesitancy to many of the shots, which threw off the rhythm and resulted in misses.

Mavericks star Luca Doncic finished with a triple double scoring 34 points, having 10 rebounds and 10 assists. He also was on the receiving end of many self-sold fouls, but that didn’t decide the game.

On the positive side for the Pelicans, the ever-steady Jonas Valanciunas led the way on the offensive end scoring 25 points. Naji Marshall was right behind him with 24 points, and Herb Jones scored 18 points.

The Pelicans (24-15) now continue their road trip, playing against the Washington Wizards (17-23) on Monday, Jan. 9 at 6 pm. 


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Tulane Green Wave Football Camp Circuit ad with “11 Scholarship Offers” in gold text on a dark stadium background
By Patrick Harkness June 18, 2026
Yulman Stadium has been electric this June. In the IDPF or under the lights and in the Louisiana heat, the Tulane Green Wave coaching staff, led by head coach Will Hall, turned their summer camp circuit into a major recruiting statement. Across multiple sessions, the Green Wave extended 11 scholarship offers to talented prospects from Louisiana and beyond. The camps featured position-specific drills, 1-on-1 competitions, and direct evaluations from Coach Hall and his staff. Prospects left with more than just memories, several walked away with their first (or latest) Division I offer from a program that continues to build momentum in the American Conference and on the national recruiting trail. Standout Performers and Scholarship Recipients Tulane’s staff targeted size, athleticism, versatility, and scheme fit. Here are some of the prospects who earned offers during the recent camp sessions. Blair “Big Red” Lewis (Class of 2029 | OT | Jeanerette High School, LA | 6’6”, 300+ lbs)
The massive offensive tackle dominated the trenches with powerful hands, leverage, and improving footwork. After strong showings in pass pro and run blocking, he earned his Tulane offer from OL coach Cody Kennedy. Lewis already holds offers from LSU, USC, and Memphis and is one of the top 2029 linemen in the country. Trilon Francis (Class of 2028 | TE/DE Hybrid | Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy | 6’3”, 230 lbs)
A high-motor, versatile athlete who flashed explosiveness at both tight end and on the edge. His length, change-of-direction ability, and physicality stood out. He picked up his third D-I offer after conversations with the defensive staff. Lipton Zachary Mckenzie (Class of 2029 | RB/ATH | Cardinal Gibbons High School, FL | 5’9”, 165 lbs)
The shifty, explosive back made defenders miss in space with elite burst and vision. Tulane saw a playmaker who can contribute as a change-of-pace back or return specialist. Nasir Parker (Class of 2028 | WR | 6’5”, 202 lbs) Earned his fifth overall offer. Reece Robinson (Class of 2030 | QB | Parklane Academy) Received his first Tulane offer and expressed excitement about building a relationship with the staff.@reeceqb12 Kasen Anio (Class of 2030 | ATH | Zachary High School | 6’2.5”, 208 lbs) Picked up his fifth offer after a strong camp and conversation with Coach Schexnayder. Mason Smith (Class of 2030 | QB | North Desoto) Earned an offer after working with QB coach Collin D’Angelo. Other prospects from the June 17 session and earlier camps also received offers (27- DB James Tyson Tulane commit), bringing the total to 11 scholarships extended during Tulane’s camp circuit this month. The staff evaluated talent across multiple classes (2027–2030), showing a clear long-term vision for roster building. Coaching Presence and Camp Atmosphere Head Coach Will Hall, along with assistants including Collin D’Angelo, Coach Schexnayder, Cody Kennedy, and others, were heavily involved in evaluations and conversations. Prospects from across Louisiana (New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette areas) and neighboring states competed in front of the staff. Recruiting Momentum Under Will Hall These 11 offers continue a strong trend for Tulane. The Green Wave have been aggressive in-state and regionally, targeting physical linemen, versatile athletes, and explosive skill players who fit Will Hall’s offensive and defensive schemes. With the transfer portal and NIL landscape evolving, camps like these allow Tulane to identify high-upside talent early and build relationships before the bigger national names lock in. The fact that multiple 2029 and 2030 prospects earned offers shows the staff is thinking ahead while still competing for immediate needs. What’s Next? The staff will continue monitoring these 11 new offer recipients as they navigate their recruiting processes. The camp circuit delivered, and the future looks bright in New Orleans. #RollWave #RMFW Make sure to follow Patrick Harkness on X
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