Yves Missi Tops NBA Rookie Ladder After Stellar December

New Orleans Pelicans rookie center Yves Missi has surged to the top of the NBA’s Kia Rookie Ladder after a standout December, overtaking San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle for the No. 1 spot. Missi, the 21st overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has emerged as a bright spot for the struggling Pelicans, who have gone 1-20 in their last 21 games.

Since joining the starting lineup on Nov. 1, Missi has averaged 9.8 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, showcasing his defensive prowess and efficiency in the paint. His effective field goal percentage of 57% surpasses the league average of 54.1%, and he ranks second among rookies in blocks with 46, trailing only Washington Wizards‘ Alexandre Sarr.

Missi’s journey to the NBA has been anything but ordinary. Born in Brussels, Belgium, and raised in Cameroon, he honed his skills at West Nottingham Academy in Maryland, Prolific Prep in California, and Baylor University in Texas before being drafted by the Pelicans. Despite the team’s struggles, Missi has impressed teammates and coaches alike. “He’s probably surprised himself,” said Pelicans guard CJ McCollum. “From the first day he got here to now has been night and day.”

Washington’s Alexandre Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick, has also made waves, climbing to second on the Rookie Ladder. Sarr’s improved shooting in December (46.1% from the field, 45.5% from three) has been a key factor in his rise. Wizards coach Brian Keefe praised Sarr’s mental toughness, saying, “Some people hesitate when they’re not making them. He was not.”

Rounding out the top three is Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey, who has shown flashes of dominance despite battling injuries. Edey’s 21-point, 16-rebound performance against the Toronto Raptors on Dec. 26 highlighted his potential, though he has since entered concussion protocol.

The Pelicans and Wizards are set to face off twice this weekend, offering fans a chance to see Missi and Sarr go head-to-head. With both rookies leading their respective classes, the matchups could provide a glimpse into the future of the NBA’s big man hierarchy.