Zion Williamson showcased what he could do for the New Orleans Pelicans in their preseason opener.
NBA preseason is underway, with teams playing across the globe as they each begin their unique preparation plans.
While the Knicks and 76ers are playing two exhibition games in Abu Dhabi, the New Orleans Pelicans are in Australia.
The Pelicans played their first game against NBL side Melbourne United, in a very early tip-off for US fans.
New Orleans came out on top, winning 107-97, and fans had an opportunity to see the new-look Zion Williamson in action.
Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty ImagesHow Zion Williamson fared
Zion Williamson has returned for the season with a slimmed down new look, with coach Willie Green warning the league to ‘buckle up’.
It comes after Williamson’s 2024-25 season was wrecked by injury, the latest in a series of setbacks for his career.
The former number one overall pick showed out in the exhibition game, scoring 15 points in 15 minutes of play.
Williamson’s showcase had fans in the arena chanting his name, hoping the coaching staff would put him back in the game after he sat.
“His combination of an explosive first step and the strength to brush off defenders at the rim makes Zion Williamson so, so special,” one account wrote on X.
“Zion Williamson looks good. Moving very well. Still looks quick & explosive,” another added.
A third wrote: “Really rooting for a healthy Zion Williamson szn. His team knows they desperately need him out there.”
Another wrote excitedly: “Zion Williamson is in beast mode”.
Williamson added 2 rebounds and 5 assists to go alongside his 15 points.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Melbourne scorers graphicNew Orleans top points scorers
Zion Williamson’s 15 points were the second highest among his teammates, with Trey Murphy posting 18 points.
Jose Alvarado, Jordan Poole and Jordan Hawkins each had 11 points. Rookie Jeremiah Fears added 7.
Yves Missi led the team in rebounds, with 8, to go alongside his 6 points.