UPDATE: Zion Williamson made an explosive return to the court, scoring 18 points off the bench to lead the New Orleans Pelicans to a 114-104 victory over the Chicago Bulls on December 3, 2023. This marks a pivotal moment for the injury-plagued forward, who has faced multiple setbacks this season.
Williamson, the NBA’s top draft pick in 2019, had been sidelined for the last five games due to a right hip adductor strain. His return comes amidst a dismal season for the Pelicans, who now stand at 5-22, solidifying their position at the bottom of the league standings.
The game saw Williamson enter the action just over four minutes into the first quarter, playing nearly 27 minutes in total. He scored seven points in the final four minutes, showcasing his ability to close out the game effectively. “It was a game plan that allowed me to close the game,” Williamson explained. “I didn’t have a problem with it because it allowed me to close the game.” His comeback was punctuated by a spectacular dunk with just 37 seconds remaining, sealing the victory for New Orleans.
Interim coach James Borrego commended Williamson for his hard work in returning sooner than anticipated from his injury. “He’s done a heck of a job to get to this point, if you want to call it ahead of schedule,” Borrego stated before the game. Williamson averaged 22.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 30.9 minutes in his first ten games this season, demonstrating his significant impact on the court.
Despite the victory, the Bulls struggled as they played without guard Ayo Dosunmu, who was sidelined due to a sprained thumb. The team has now lost eight of their last nine games, with guard Coby White leading the Bulls with 20 points under a minutes restriction alongside six other teammates.
The Pelicans’ triumph is particularly significant as both they and the Bulls snapped seven-game losing streaks just days earlier. With Williamson back in the lineup, the Pelicans hope to build momentum and improve their standings as the season progresses.
Moving forward, all eyes will be on Williamson and the Pelicans as they aim to capitalize on this much-needed win. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Williamson can maintain his rhythm and lead New Orleans out of the basement of the NBA.