Zion Williamson details emotions of past year amid speculation

New Orleans Pelican forward Zion Williamson has had a wild last year. A broken fifth metatarsal in his right foot held him out of the entire 2021-2022 NBA season. Amongst all the speculation about when or if he’d return, doubt began to grow regarding his commitment to the franchise. Several of those doubters were silenced when Williamson signed a max rookie extension worth five years, $193 million last week.

Williamson and the Pelicans held a press conference after signing his new contract. He said last season was turbulent because of the backlash he and his family was receiving.

“The last few months were a roller coaster of emotion. I felt that the most for my family. In the beginning of the season I told the world if they ever want to know if I want to be here, just ask me. Instead of asking, the world just ran with narratives,” said Williamson. “When my family was going out in public, they were getting harassed by people on why we don’t like New Orleans or why we don’t want to be here when that’s not the case at all. Every time I checked my phone, it was always something negative. Even when you’re trying to make a positive of the situation, it was very tough.”

Williamson was an All-Star during his second season where he averaged 27 points and 7.2 rebounds on a ridiculous 61.1% field goal percentage. In a vacuum, that would easily define him as one of the franchise’s cornerstones. Counting in his first and third seasons make it a bit more murky as he played just 24 games as a rookie and zero last year. With the Pelicans competing in the playoffs, it only led to more frustration at Williamson for not being on the floor.

Through all the criticism, Williamson says he’s grateful for the support of his inner circle and franchise. He says his family along with Pelicans owner Gayle Benson, VP David Griffin and head coach Willie Green all offered their own help for his mental health throughout the year.

“My family, the Pels, and Mrs. Benson were always there. Griff would call me in his office and would always drop gems on me. They would just give me knowledge on the situation and what they think I can do to mentally feel better. They always offered help when they didn’t have to. Same for Coach Green. He kept his distance but he also would come drop gems on me,” Williamson said. “The people I needed to be there for me? They were all there. The Pelicans, my family, my friends. Despite it being a roller coaster, they helped me get through the tough times.

Williamson’s new extension could end up worth $231 million. The Pelicans just invested heavily into a player that has played just 85 career games in three seasons. Still, he has reiterated his commitment to the team and city of New Orleans. Now it’s all about getting him back healthy so he can live up both to his potential and all new price tag.