Pelicans End Skid with McCollum's Overtime Heroics

CJ McCollum delivered an exceptional performance, scoring 43 points, including a critical tie-breaking 3-pointer in overtime, to lead the New Orleans Pelicans to a 140-133 victory over the Sacramento Kings, ending a 10-game losing streak. He scored 37 of those points after halftime, with 11 points in overtime, setting a franchise record for most points in an overtime period. Despite missing Zion Williamson, the Pelicans managed to overcome the Kings, who had four players scoring 20 or more points. Trey Murphy III also contributed significantly with 18 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds. The win brings the Pelicans to a 13-42 record, still at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, but it gives them a boost heading into the All-Star break. McCollum's leadership and scoring have been pivotal for the team's morale and performance as noted by head coach Willie Green.