Pelicans' superstar Zion Willamson has spent a great deal of time under the spotlight, as well as under harsh scrutiny by the media in more recent months.
Through it all, the word we trust at the end of the day is the man's himself. Sitting down with Zion on media day cleared things up—he's in good shape, spirits, and health—but when it comes to basketball, he means business.
The "New" Zion
Upon entrance, Zion was prompted with what his goals for the season were, for which he gave a one word answer of "win." The all star player insists his mental and physical shape is back on track and he is ready to take on this season.
Zion shares his mentality regarding his offseason, saying that when something's clearly not working, the sole solution is to embrace change.
"The Pels have made many improvements to prevent and react to injuries in the best way possible this season," said Zion with confidence that he is headed into a healthy season.
He acknowledges a large part of his recuperation was staying in New Orleans this offseason and working with the Pelicans. "I've been working on my movements, and locking in on every aspect of my body, including my mental. Things happen and you have to respond to them."
In other news of Zion's offseason, he shares that "he is excited about [his] daughter, who's due in November." The idea of his daughter made Zion smile for the first time over the course of the day. He shares that although his daughter may not be born for another month or so, he has already become a new man in terms of priorities and grounding.
Another aspect Zion shares about his off season is his enjoyment of New Orleans itself. "New Orleans is home to me. Being in the city this summer was dope. Running into the people of New Orleans has made me feel the love." On a heartfelt note, he explains that New Orleans is not just family to him, but it's his home, and this is where he wants to be.
When asked if he'd be stepping up to lead the team in the locker room and beyond, Zion admits that "before I can lead, I have to learn how to follow," inferrably about working on his overall mentality and skill set. Some of his favorite albums to get him "in the zone" include Reasonable Doubt by Jay Z, and The Great Escape by Larry June.
While the Pelicans were playing top notch ball during December, Zion says it doesn't matter as "we want to be at the top when the season is over, that's what we're working for. [The season] didn't end the way we wanted to, but we can only learn from it and get better."
General Manager Trajan Langdon, Coach Green, and VP David Griffin had made it clear they believe in Zion's ability this season due to the commitment and grit he's shown this offseason.
"Zion definitely had moments where he didn't want to be in the media. No part of him was happy to watch the game from the sidelines. Yet now we're in the moment where we're owning what happened, are being held accountable, and are getting back on the floor to play basketball," says Coach Green.
Griffin described a noticeable increase in Zion's dedication and commitment to investing in himself, indicating a newfound level of focus. He notes Zion has taken the vital step of personally investing into his profession and the Pelicans team, such as working closely with nutritionists and trainers.
Teammate CJ McCollum explains that he's seen "a lot of growth in terms of strength and mentality" from Zion. "So far I've liked his approach. I think maturation has come with becoming a father," said McCollum as he explains how fatherhood can provide Zion with the needed sanity, clarity, and prioritization for success.
Teammate Larry Nance Jr. says Zion "seems like he's got a chip on his shoulder. He's ready to tune everything out and play basketball."
"There's a lot of greatness in this organization, And I can't just sit up here and talk to you about it, I have to show you. I'm ready to win with my brothers and have some fun," said Zion.
Another note Zion made before leaving his media day debut, he said what he worked on most during the off season was becoming "unguardable."
The New Orleans Pelicans 2023-24 Season
Don't miss out on all of the Where Y'At coverage of the New Orleans Pelicans. Check out our season preview from media day to get hyped up for the season, too. If you want to see Zion in action himself, check the team schedule and grab your tickets for a live game at the Smoothie King Center.
