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Zion Williamson explains banter with refs in games

On3 imageby:Andrew Graham•10/21/22•

AndrewEdGraham

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 19: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on October 19, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

A 25-point, nine-rebound performance from Zion Williamson in the season opener for the New Orleans Pelicans — a win over the Brooklyn Nets — is a plenty welcome sign for hoops fans in the Big Easy.

Williamson getting so animated with the refs at points might not be as ballyhooed. After the game, he explained that though it’s intense and animated, he’s really just trying to glean info to use to his advantage.

“When y’all see me talking to the refs, I’m talking to them simply trying to gain knowledge,” Williamson said. “Like, ‘How did he get that foul call?’ Because I want to add that to my game, where I get that foul call. If y’all listen, each time I’ll just say, ‘Respect.’ I respect it. Don’t ever think I’m coming at you with disrespect.”

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Williamson, despite his burly frame and absurd athleticism, only attempted four free throws against the Nets and clearly felt he should be getting some more calls. But his answer is reflective of a player smart enough to not berate the ref, but to ask them what he might do to get calls himself.

It’s also not in Williamson’s nature to tell somebody how to do their job like that.

“You know me,” Williamson said. “I’m never going to tell the ref, I’m never going to tell people how to do their job. I’m just not that kind of person.”

Williamson was happy to make his return after sitting out for so long

Williamson spoke about his comeback during media after New Orleans’ 130-108 win over Brooklyn in the opener. He said it was an introspective time that reaffirmed his love for the sport. Now, it’s not something he takes for granted.

“Like I said in previous interviews this past year, I really learned a lot about myself. And It was tough,” said Williamson. “I say I love the game of basketball. I genuinely love the game of basketball and that’s what I want to do. So when I wasn’t able to play with my teammates, it was rough. If you saw me since media days and training camp, I have fun every day with it. It’s just me every day.”