Early Life and Education of CJ McCollum: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of CJ McCollum, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

CJ McCollum is a professional basketball player currently playing for the New Orleans Pelicans. He was drafted tenth overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2013 after a successful college career at Lehigh University, where he earned Patriot League Player of the Year honors twice. McCollum spent nine seasons with Portland, becoming a key player and earning the NBA Most Improved Player award in 2016. In 2022, he was traded to the Pelicans, marking a new chapter in his NBA career.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

September 19, 1991: CJ McCollum's Birth

On September 19, 1991, Christian James McCollum, now known as CJ McCollum, was born. He is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA.

Others born on this day/year

2005: Played Varsity as a Freshman

In 2005, as a freshman at GlenOak High School, CJ McCollum, standing at 5 ft 2 in, played varsity basketball for the Golden Eagles, relying on his athleticism.

2009: Joins Lehigh University

In 2009, CJ McCollum joined Lehigh University and made an immediate impact for the Mountain Hawks.

2010: Increased Averages as a Sophomore

In 2010-11 season, McCollum, as a sophomore, increased his averages to 21.8 points and 7.8 rebounds per outing. However, he was edged out for conference Player of the Year honors.

2016: Opened CJ McCollum Dream Center

In 2016, CJ McCollum opened the CJ McCollum Dream Center at the Blazers Boys & Girls Club. The center is an innovative learning room equipped with computers, books, art, and learning tools.

March 2020: NBA Season Suspension Announcement During Podcast

In March 2020, while recording an episode of his podcast, "Pull Up with CJ McCollum", McCollum received the news that the NBA was suspending the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

October 27, 2020: Marriage to Elise Esposito

On October 27, 2020, CJ McCollum married his college sweetheart, Elise Esposito.

August 7, 2021: Elected President of the National Basketball Players Association

On August 7, 2021, CJ McCollum succeeded Chris Paul to become the president of the National Basketball Players Association.

December 7, 2021: Pneumothorax Diagnosis

On December 7, 2021, CJ McCollum received a diagnosis of pneumothorax, leading to an indefinite period of being sidelined.

January 10, 2022: Birth of Son Jacobi

On January 10, 2022, CJ McCollum and Elise Esposito welcomed their son, Jacobi.

February 8, 2022: Trade to the New Orleans Pelicans

On February 8, 2022, CJ McCollum, along with Larry Nance Jr. and Tony Snell, was traded from Portland to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Josh Hart, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Tomáš Satoranský, Didi Louzada, a protected 2022 first-round draft pick, the better of New Orleans' and Portland's 2026 second-round draft picks and New Orleans' 2027 second-round draft pick.