PHOENIX — Zion Williamson’s career in the NBA has been marked by frequent injuries and losses which have taken a toll on both him and his team’s performance. Despite these setbacks, flashes of brilliance occasionally shine through, showcasing why he was the No. 1 overall pick in 2019.
On Thursday night, Williamson dazzled with a remarkable performance in the New Orleans Pelicans’ 124-116 victory over the Phoenix Suns. Achieving his first career triple-double, Williamson scored 27 points, pulled in 10 rebounds, and provided 11 assists. This was a significant win for the Pelicans, who extended their longest winning streak of the season to three games.
“This is a reminder to the NBA, to the fans, to everybody,” said Pelicans coach Willie Green, emphasizing Williamson’s potential on the court. “This is who he can be, night in and night out. That’s what we’re all striving to accomplish as a group. We’re striving to get our best player on the floor.”
Williamson’s achievement was celebrated amongst his teammates when he secured his 10th rebound with just over a minute left in the game. The forward, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 284 pounds, needed only 31 minutes to accomplish this triple-double while being careful to manage his playing time to avoid further injuries.
“It’s dope,” Williamson expressed about his milestone performance. “It’s funny, there have been so many times when I felt it could have happened, but I never forced the issue. Tonight, my teammates were like, ‘No, you’ve got to get it tonight.'”
Even with this extraordinary performance, the Pelicans continue to face a challenging season. Despite winning three games in a row, they hold a 16-43 record, putting them far from playoff contention.
Williamson’s extended absence due to a hamstring injury this season adds to a list of medical concerns that have plagued his time since being drafted as the top overall pick from Duke. Nonetheless, his potential is evident—he’s made the All-Star team in his two most consistent seasons, playing over 60 games in each.
Despite promises of his talent, questions linger regarding Williamson’s health, maturity, and dedication to his career. Concerns have arisen around his physical condition, his weight, and even his punctuality, leading to a one-game suspension earlier this season for arriving late to a team flight.
Against the Suns, Williamson brushed aside all doubts. His role was pivotal down the stretch as he scored in the paint and matched his career high with 11 assists. “He was fantastic and carried us down the stretch,” Green noted. “He’s been amazing.”
Significantly, Williamson is still only 24 years old and maintains an impressive season average of 24.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, despite limited playing time of 28 minutes each night. “These nights are big for the confidence and a reminder of who I am,” Williamson said, reflecting on the breakthrough performance.
