NEW ORLEANS — Zion Williamson made a spectacular statement about his return to the court after a 27-game recovery period from injury with an impressive 360-degree dunk, showcasing his athleticism and flair with a double-clutch slam.
“That dunk was remarkable, especially considering how long he was sidelined,” commented Pelicans point guard Dejounte Murray after their close encounter, where the Pelicans fell 104-97 to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday evening. “I’m just happy to see him play with such confidence and joy.”
For Williamson, performing that dynamic dunk in his comeback from a left hamstring strain felt less like a risk and more like “another day at the office.”
“I truly feel like my legs are back under me,” Williamson stated, having recorded 22 points in just under 28 minutes of play.
He further mentioned, “My focus during rehabilitation was extremely intense. I don’t think I missed a beat; in fact, I feel like I’ve gained a beat.”
In addition to his scoring, Williamson garnered six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and blocked Wolves center Rudy Gobert. He electrified the audience with a soaring two-handed dunk following a long alley-oop pass from CJ McCollum just moments after hitting the floor.
“It’s amazing how he impacts the game whenever he steps onto the court,” praised Pelicans head coach Willie Green. “There was a bit of rust, but what I witnessed from him tonight is impressive considering the lengthy absence.”
Green noted that Williamson had a minutes restriction that aligned closely with the playing time he received. The coach inserted him into the starting lineup alongside Murray, marking their first game together on the floor.
Williamson’s two high-flying dunks in the third quarter came as a result of fierce defense by both players on Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle, culminating in a successful recovery of the ball due to their tenacity.
“Our chemistry is already evident,” Williamson expressed.
Green echoed his sentiments: “Those moments were exhilarating. It provided a glimpse into the potential of this team.”
As Williamson made his way from the tunnel for warm-ups before the game, the crowd erupted with applause once again when he was announced as a starter.
Selected first overall in the 2019 NBA Draft from Duke, Williamson had only participated in six of the Pelicans’ previous 36 games this season, boasting averages of 22.7 points, eight rebounds, and 5.3 assists.
The Pelicans, now at a record of 7-30, dropped to 2-5 in games with Williamson this season, while suffering significantly without him, going 5-25, which included a staggering 4-23 record over the last 27 games.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans also prepare for a game against Portland on Wednesday night; however, Green refrained from commenting on whether Williamson could take the court for back-to-back games right now.
Williamson added that he would have to check in with the team about his availability on Wednesday.
