New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is drawing attention as he enters the 2024-25 NBA season with a noticeably leaner physique. Known for his explosive power on the court, Williamson’s transformation has sparked conversations about the potential impact on his performance and durability in the league.
Recently, he hosted a basketball camp in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where pictures revealed his slimmer figure, complemented by a new beard that highlighted his changed appearance. His step-father, Lee Anderson, stated that Williamson has reduced his weight to 281 pounds and aims to reach 272 pounds by the beginning of the season, marking a significant decrease from the 285 pounds he carried last season.
Injuries have plagued Williamson throughout his career, and while he managed to play in 70 games last season, he still battled injuries, including a hamstring issue that kept him from participating in the playoffs. His fluctuating weight has often been linked to his health struggles. The Pelicans have addressed this concern by including incentives in his $231 million contract to motivate him to maintain a healthier weight.
Williamson’s scoring ability remains impressive, as he led the Pelicans last season with averages of 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. As he strives to stay healthy, he could prove pivotal for a Pelicans team looking to achieve playoff success.
Social media is buzzing with fans reacting to his transformation, expressing hopes for his potential as an All-NBA player and curiosity about how his lighter frame will affect his gameplay. Comments have included excitement over his new look and speculation about the upcoming season.
As the 2024-25 NBA season nears, Zion Williamson’s performance will be closely monitored, with many anticipating that his off-season dedication will lead to a standout year for him and the Pelicans.