The Pelicans open Summer League play tonight in Las Vegas, and typically it wouldn’t be that big of a deal. But, a sold out arena awaits the NBA debut of Zion Williamson.
Another one for Zion Williamson…The consensus Men’s Basketball National Player of the Year has been named ACC Male Athlete of the Year! (@DukeMBB)-- https://t.co/yzi0uzjDul pic.twitter.com/dACj2oNnUB
— The ACC (@theACC)
July 3, 2019 The 6ft7, 284 power forward was the Pels top overall pick in the draft and has made the city of New Orleans quickly forget about Anthony Davis. Drew Brees even gifted him a Saints jersey that read, “To Zion – Passing the torch to you! Who Dat!”
Zion isn’t letting the big spotlight throw him off the path he’s been following to get this far. Before even getting drafted he said, “There were times when this wasn’t here. There were no interviews. There were no fans. The gym was empty. Actually, it wasn’t even a gym, it was an outdoor court and it was just me and my stepdad. So, I just think back to those times.”
It’s not just the way the 18 year old carries himself that draws folks in. Zion plays with a rare combination of finesse and power and is a tremendous ball handler for a player his size. His passion for the game also oozes out every time you see him on the court.
To make things even spicier for the NBA Summer League is that Zion gets to square off against former Duke roommate RJ Barrett; who was taken 3rd overall by the NY Knicks. You can catch tip-off on ESPN at 8:30pm.
Zion discusses playing in the #Pelicans fast-paced offense, facing RJ Barrett in his first NBA game #SummerPelicans pic.twitter.com/wadAYR6wrP
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA)
July 5, 2019
