ATLANTA-Former Georgia State star Eric Buckner has signed to play with the New Orleans Pelicans’ summer league team as announced by the team on Friday. Buckner spent the previous two seasons playing for a pair of teams in Turkey.

Buckner finished his career as arguably the greatest defensive player in school history, blocking a record 167 shots in two seasons. After transferring from Gulf Coast Community College, Buckner shot 58.6 percent from the floor, the fourth highest career mark in school history.

He finished his career earning All-CAA Third Team and CAA Defensive Team honors, while being named to the NABC Division I All-District 10 Second Team. He was also named the Atlanta Tip-off Club Georgia Men's College Player of the Year after his senior season.

“I was pleased to see Eric get the opportunity to play with an NBA franchise,” head coach Ron Hunter said. “Since leaving Georgia State, he has worked extremely hard to improve his game. He has had a great deal of success over in Turkey and I am sure he will take advantage of this great opportunity.”

As a senior, Buckner set a Georgia State school-record with 118 blocked shots, sixth most in the NCAA. He finished the season shooting 62.0-percent from the floor while being named to the World Vision Classic All-Tournament Team to open the season. Buckner finished the year averaging 10.8 points per game.

Fans can follow Buckner’s play in Las Vegas at NBA.com.

--GeorgiaStateSports.com—