Pelicans two-way rookies combine for 56 points in their professional debuts, but Austin’s explosive perimeter shooting proves decisive in NBA G League Tip-Off Tournament action.
STWF SPORTS | AUSTIN, Texas| NOVEMBER 8, 2026 – The Laketown Squadron opened their 2026-27 NBA G League campaign with promising performances from two of the New Orleans Pelicans’ newest prospects, but a strong offensive showing was not enough to overcome the Austin Spurs in a 117-110 defeat Sunday afternoon.
Two-way rookies Malik Dia and Jaron Pierre Jr. combined for 56 points in their professional debuts, providing an encouraging glimpse of Laketown’s offensive potential.
Dia led all scorers with 31 points and grabbed a game-high 14 rebounds, while Pierre contributed 25 points, including four three-pointers.
Despite the individual performances, the Squadron fell to 0-1 in the Tip-Off Tournament as Austin improved to 2-0.
Dia Delivers Impressive Professional Debut
Dia wasted little time establishing himself as a major offensive contributor for Laketown.
The former Mississippi standout finished with 31 points on 11-of-21 shooting, demonstrating his ability to score efficiently against professional competition.
His 14 rebounds completed an impressive double-double, while three assists highlighted his versatility.
The 6-foot-9 forward consistently provided scoring opportunities and helped Laketown remain competitive throughout the contest.
Dia’s performance offered an encouraging early return for the Pelicans’ developmental system as the organization evaluates its young talent.
Pierre Provides Offensive Spark
Pierre also delivered a strong debut, scoring 25 points while connecting on four of 10 attempts from beyond the arc.
The New Orleans native was perfect from the free-throw line, converting all four attempts.
His perimeter shooting helped Laketown challenge Austin’s defense, particularly during an explosive second quarter.
Together, Dia and Pierre accounted for more than half of the Squadron’s total scoring production.
Their contributions demonstrated the potential impact of the Pelicans’ two-way players as they continue adapting to the professional game.
Squadron Establish Early Lead
The Resilience of the Laketown Squadron
Laketown opened the contest with energy and offensive balance, receiving an immediate contribution from returning center Hunter Dickinson.
Dickinson scored nine first-quarter points on 4-of-5 shooting, helping the Squadron establish an early advantage.
Laketown led by as many as five points during the opening period before taking a 22-21 lead into the second quarter.
The strong start reflected the team’s ability to generate quality offensive opportunities while competing defensively against Austin.
However, the Spurs responded with an impressive perimeter shooting display.
Austin’s Three-Point Shooting Changes Momentum
The second quarter quickly developed into an offensive battle.
Dia and Pierre combined for 24 points during the period, fueling Laketown’s attack.
The Squadron shot 50 percent from the field and connected on eight of 15 three-point attempts during the opening half.
Despite that efficiency, Austin established momentum with exceptional outside shooting.
The Spurs converted 11 of 20 first-half three-point attempts, allowing them to overcome Laketown’s early advantage.
Austin carried a 67-64 lead into halftime after a high-scoring second quarter.
Spurs Hold Off Second-Half Comeback
Austin continued applying pressure after halftime, eventually building a 79-70 advantage during the third quarter.
Laketown responded with an 8-0 scoring run in less than two minutes, reducing the deficit and restoring momentum.
However, the Spurs maintained a narrow 87-83 lead entering the fourth quarter.
Austin then delivered another decisive offensive surge, stretching its advantage to 19 points.
The Squadron continued fighting, eventually trimming the deficit to single digits during the closing minutes.
Despite the late push, Austin protected its lead and secured the 117-110 victory.
Home Opener Awaits Against Mexico City
Laketown will look to build on the encouraging individual performances when it returns home Saturday, November 14, to face the Mexico City Capitanes.
Tipoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. CT as the Squadron celebrates Hispanic Heritage Day.
The game will be televised on the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network and streamed through the NBA App and NBA.com.
Radio coverage will be available on 106.7 FM The Ticket.
STWF Sports Final Takeaway
Although Laketown opened the season with a loss, the performances of Dia and Pierre provided several positive developments.
Both rookies demonstrated offensive confidence, scoring versatility and the potential to become important contributors throughout the season.
However, limiting opponents’ perimeter shooting and maintaining defensive consistency will be essential moving forward.
For the Squadron, Sunday’s result represents an early learning opportunity. With 56 combined points from its two-way rookies, Laketown has a promising foundation as it prepares for its home debut against Mexico City.
STWF Sports | Laketown Squadron Coverage | NBA G League 2026–27 Season
