Calgary Surge Guard Thrae Mitchell has officially signed a deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, making him the latest Canadian player to join the NBA.
The 6-foot-5, 205-pound guard has been playing for the Surge since 2019 and has quickly made a name for himself in the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). In his two seasons with the team, Mitchell has averaged 14.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
Mitchell’s impressive performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his invitation to the Pelicans’ training camp. After showcasing his skills and potential, he was offered a two-way contract with the team.
This means that Mitchell will split his time between the Pelicans and their G League affiliate, the Birmingham Squadron. This opportunity will allow him to continue developing his game and potentially earn a spot on the Pelicans’ roster in the future.
Mitchell is no stranger to the NBA, having previously played for the Toronto Raptors’ G League team, the Raptors 905, in the 2019-2020 season. He also had a brief stint with the Raptors during the 2020 NBA Summer League.
The 24-year-old guard is excited about this new chapter in his basketball career and is grateful for the support he has received from his family, coaches, and teammates.
“I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to play for the New Orleans Pelicans,” Mitchell said in a statement. “I am ready to work hard and contribute to the team in any way I can.”
Mitchell’s signing with the Pelicans is a testament to the growing talent and potential of Canadian basketball players. He joins fellow Canadians Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Wenyen Gabriel on the Pelicans’ roster.
The CEBL also congratulated Mitchell on his achievement, stating that it is a proud moment for the league and Canadian basketball as a whole.
The New Orleans Pelicans will begin their 2021-2022 season on October 20th, and fans will be eagerly watching to see Mitchell in action. Congratulations to Thrae Mitchell on this incredible accomplishment, and we wish him all the best in his NBA journey.
