The New Orleans Pelicans have added undrafted rookie Johnny O’Neil on an Exhibit 10 contract and then placed him on waivers, according to Keith Smith of Spotrac. The move was recorded on September 17, 2025.
O’Neil, a 6-foot-10 forward/center, spent five collegiate seasons split between American University and Santa Clara. In his lone year with the Broncos in 2024-25, the 23-year-old averaged 7.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.0 block over 21.9 minutes in 34 games (19 starts), shooting 43.2 percent from the field, 39.6 percent from three and 77.8 percent at the foul line.
Although the Maryland native did not generate significant pre-draft attention and skipped July’s NBA Summer League, New Orleans appears interested in his combination of rim protection and perimeter shooting. By signing O’Neil to an Exhibit 10 agreement and waiving him, the club can designate him as an affiliate player with the Birmingham Squadron of the NBA G League. If he remains with the Squadron for at least 60 days, he will be eligible for a bonus of up to $85,300.
The transaction brings the Pelicans’ roster to 20 guaranteed or partially guaranteed contracts. The team has been using its 21st and final offseason slot to cycle Exhibit 10 players for G League purposes, having completed a similar sign-and-waive process with fellow undrafted rookie Jalon Moore earlier in the week.
Source: Hoops Rumors
