Yves Missi, the New Orleans Pelicans’ towering center, captures attention with his electrifying dunks, tenacious rebounds, and rim-protecting prowess. As a rookie in the 2024-25 NBA season, he transforms the court into his playground, showcasing a blend of athleticism and raw potential. Born in Belgium and raised in Cameroon, Missi’s journey to the NBA reflects resilience and rapid growth. This article dives deep into his latest statistics, career highlights, and what makes him a standout talent. With fresh data and insights, readers will discover why Missi is a name to watch.
From Cameroon to the NBA: Missi’s Early Beginnings
Yves Missi’s story starts in Yaoundé, Cameroon, where he grew up before moving to Belgium. In 2021, he relocated to the United States, enrolling at West Nottingham Academy in Maryland. His raw talent shone through, catching the eyes of scouts. Later, he transferred to Prolific Prep in California, a powerhouse for developing elite prospects. There, he averaged 9.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, establishing himself as a force in the paint.
Transitioning to the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL), Missi elevated his game further. Playing for the PSA Cardinals, he posted 12.7 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. His dominance earned him a five-star recruit status, with ESPN ranking him as the 13th-best player nationally and the third-best center in the 2023 class. Moreover, his performance at the Nike Hoop Summit and The Grind Session World Championship solidified his reputation. Missi’s high school career set the stage for his meteoric rise.
College Stardom at Baylor: A One-and-Done Phenom
In 2023, Missi committed to Baylor University, reclassifying to join the Bears for the 2023-24 season. His freshman year showcased his potential as a dynamic big man. He averaged 10.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in just 23 minutes per game. Additionally, his 61.4% field goal percentage highlighted his efficiency around the rim. Missi’s ability to finish lobs and protect the paint earned him Big 12 All-Defensive and All-Freshman honors.
On January 27, 2024, Missi delivered a career-high 25 points against TCU, shooting 10-of-14 from the field. He also grabbed nine rebounds, showcasing his dominance. Furthermore, his 76 dunk attempts ranked eighth nationally, underscoring his explosive athleticism. Missi’s 7.1% block rate and 14.4% offensive rebounding rate placed him among the nation’s elite. Consequently, he declared for the 2024 NBA Draft, receiving a green room invite as a projected first-round pick.
NBA Draft and Pelicans’ New Anchor
On June 26, 2024, the New Orleans Pelicans selected Missi with the 21st overall pick. The departure of Jonas Valanciunas to Washington left a void in the Pelicans’ frontcourt, and Missi stepped in as a prime candidate to fill it. He signed a two-year, $6.55 million contract in July 2024, with team options for 2026-27. His NBA debut on October 23, 2024, against the Chicago Bulls was a statement: 12 points, seven rebounds, three blocks, one assist, and one steal in a 123-111 victory.
Missi’s rim-running and defensive instincts draw comparisons to Dereck Lively II, though his offensive game remains raw. Nevertheless, his athleticism and hustle make him a perfect fit for the Pelicans’ fast-paced style. As the season progresses, Missi competes with veterans like Daniel Theis and younger players like Trey Jemison for minutes. However, his upside suggests he could become a cornerstone for New Orleans.
Yves Missi’s 2024-25 NBA Season: By the Numbers
Overall Performance
Missi’s rookie season with the Pelicans is nothing short of impressive. Through 73 games, with 67 starts, he averages 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 0.5 steals per game. His 14.8 Player Efficiency Rating (PER) reflects his impact on both ends of the floor. Moreover, his 32.2% pick-and-roll frequency and 34.4% possessions from offensive rebounds highlight his role as a play-finisher.
On February 24, 2025, Missi grabbed a career-high 15 rebounds in a 114-96 win over the San Antonio Spurs. He also scored six points and dished one assist, showcasing his all-around presence. Additionally, his 31 efficiency rating against the Denver Nuggets on December 23, 2024, marked a career-best performance. Despite a late-season ankle injury sidelining him for three games, Missi’s consistency remains a bright spot for the Pelicans.
Game-Changing Highlights
Missi’s highlight-reel plays energize fans and teammates alike. Against the Philadelphia 76ers, he soared for an alley-oop dunk, displaying his vertical leap. Similarly, his powerful slam against the Minnesota Timberwolves left defenders stunned. On November 20, 2024, he tied his career-High four assists in a loss to Dallas, proving his growing playmaking ability. Furthermore, his five blocks in a college game against Gardner-Webb foreshadowed his defensive potential, which he now brings to the NBA.
His 18-point, 12-rebound performance against the Milwaukee Bucks on April 6, 2025, showcased his ability to dominate. Shooting 9-of-13 from the field, Missi added three assists, one block, and one steal. Such performances underline his potential as a double-double machine. As the season progresses, Missi’s ability to finish at the rim and protect it makes him invaluable.
Areas for Growth
While Missi excels as a rim-runner, his offensive game requires refinement. His 12/39 assist-to-turnover ratio at Baylor indicates limited playmaking skills. Additionally, his 12.0% turnover rate, though manageable, suggests room for improvement in decision-making. Unlike some modern centers, Missi lacks a consistent outside shot or short-roll passing ability. However, his work ethic and youth—he turned 21 in May 2025—bode well for future development.
Defensively, Missi’s 7.1% block rate and ability to avoid fouling out are strengths. Yet, he must adapt to guarding versatile bigs in the NBA’s pace-and-space era. Fortunately, his athleticism allows him to switch onto smaller players occasionally. With coaching and experience, Missi could evolve into a Defensive Player of the Year candidate.
Missi’s Role in the Pelicans’ Playoff Push
The Pelicans aim for a deep playoff run in 2025, and Missi plays a pivotal role. His ability to anchor the defense and finish lobs from Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram creates a dynamic frontcourt. Furthermore, his rebounding prowess generates second-chance opportunities, crucial in tight playoff games. Despite competition from Daniel Theis and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Missi’s 67 starts reflect coach Willie Green’s trust in him.
Missi’s Summer League performance, where he showcased rim protection, hinted at his readiness for the NBA. As the Pelicans navigate a competitive Western Conference, his energy off the bench or as a starter proves vital. Moreover, his chemistry with Williamson, another explosive athlete, creates highlight-worthy plays. If Missi continues improving, he could help New Orleans challenge top teams like the Thunder or Nuggets.
Comparisons and Future Outlook
Analysts compare Missi to Dereck Lively II and Nick Richards due to his athleticism and defensive instincts. Like Lively, Missi thrives as a lob threat and rim protector. However, Lively’s offensive polish at Duke slightly outpaces Missi’s current skill set. Richards, meanwhile, offers a model for Missi’s potential as a reliable, high-energy center. With time, Missi could surpass both, given his raw tools and work ethic.
Looking ahead, Missi’s development hinges on expanding his offensive repertoire. Adding a mid-range jumper or improving his passing could elevate him to All-Star status. Additionally, bulking up his 229-pound frame will help him battle bruising centers like Nikola Jokić. By 2026, when his team option kicks in, Missi could command a significant role. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await his growth into a franchise cornerstone.
Why Missi Stands Out
Missi’s journey from Cameroon to the NBA inspires fans worldwide. His relentless hustle, infectious energy, and highlight-reel dunks make him a fan favorite. Furthermore, his defensive versatility and rebounding tenacity address key Pelicans’ needs. At just 21, Missi’s ceiling remains sky-high, and his rookie season only scratches the surface of his potential. As he refines his game, the NBA will feel his presence for years to come.
Saddiq Bey His cultural impact also resonates. As a Cameroonian player, Missi joins the likes of Joel Embiid and Pascal Siakam in representing African talent. His story of perseverance—moving continents and climbing recruiting ranks—motivates young athletes. Additionally, his humility and team-first mentality endear him to teammates and coaches. Missi’s blend of skill, heart, and charisma makes him a unique talent.
FAQs About Yves Missi’s Stats and Career
What are Yves Missi’s average stats in the 2024-25 NBA season?
Anthony Richardson Yves Missi averages 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 0.5 steals per game in the 2024-25 season. Across 73 games, with 67 starts, he maintains a 14.8 Player Efficiency Rating. His standout performances include a 15-rebound game against San Antonio and an 18-point, 12-rebound effort against Milwaukee.
How did Yves Missi perform in college at Baylor?
Deni Avdija At Baylor, Missi averaged 10.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game as a freshman in 2023-24. He shot 61.4% from the field and ranked eighth nationally with 76 dunk attempts. Additionally, he earned Big 12 All-Defensive and All-Freshman honors, with a career-high 25 points against TCU.
What is Yves Missi’s role with the New Orleans Pelicans?
Braelon Allen Missi serves as a starting center for the Pelicans, anchoring the defense and finishing lobs in the paint. His rebounding and rim protection complement stars like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Despite competition from Daniel Theis, Missi’s 67 starts highlight his importance to the team’s playoff aspirations.
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