A native of Italy, Nicolo Melli has a unique background compared to his New Orleans teammates, as the only current Pelicans player born outside of North America (Nickeil Alexander-Walker was born in Canada).

Melli is also the only member of the roster who did not play Division I college basketball, instead turning pro in his teens and spending a dozen years in leagues overseas. Although he’s an NBA rookie, the 29-year-old is the fifth-oldest New Orleans player, younger than only JJ Redick, E’Twaun Moore, Darius Miller and Jrue Holiday.