Zion Williamson returns to the NBA action by contributing 12 points after injury, five rebounds, and five assists in a 16-minute appearance during the Orlando Magic’s 122-105 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans in the preseason opener for both teams.
Zion Williamson Returns to the NBA
This game signified Williamson’s first appearance in an NBA contest since he sustained an injury to his right hamstring in Philadelphia on January 2nd. Following a missed initial two shots, he delighted fans with a powerful two-handed dunk for his first points. He further added a 13-foot running floater, a short turnaround, and a layup, and made four free throws.
His teammate, CJ McCollum, praised Williamson, describing him as “unstoppable” and emphasizing the importance of aligning their playstyle with Zion’s capabilities. McCollum expressed confidence that Williamson will excel, provided they work on their spacing, pace, tempo, and defense.
The return of key players, like Zion Williamson, is a step toward ensuring they can play consistently throughout the season, and it’s also an opportunity for fans to witness the collective effort to improve their performance in the upcoming season.
The preseason game saw the Orlando starters in action for the initial minutes of the second half. Wendell Carter Jr. contributed 18 points in 19 minutes, while Paolo Banchero impressed with 12 points, including a remarkable one-handed dunk between Zion Williamson and Pelicans’ center Jonas Valanciunas. Banchero also secured six rebounds during his 20 minutes on the court.
Jett Howard, the 11th overall pick and son of Michigan coach Juwan Howard, scored eight points for the Magic, and Anthony Black, the 6th overall pick, added two points to the scoreboard. It’s worth noting that Joe Ingles received a night off for rest, as stated by Magic coach Jamahl Mosley before the game.
On the Pelicans’ side, Jordan Hawkins, selected 14th overall this summer from UConn, made his first 3-point shot and concluded with nine points, shooting 4-of-14. Former Ohio State standout E.J. Liddell, who missed his entire rookie season due to a significant knee injury, played 17 minutes and contributed two points.
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