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“It’s Baffling”: 11-Year NBA Veteran Blasts 284Lb Zion Williamson Over Weight Issues

Published 12/13/2023, 11:17 AM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

Zion Williamson is one of the most talked about rookies due to his dominance even before he entered the NBA league. Due to that, he was the first round first pick in the 2019 NBA draft for the New Orleans Pelicans. However, recently, due to his weight-related issues, he has become the center of attraction and is being criticized by everyone. During the semi-final loss against the Lakers at the In-Season tournament, Williamson’s fitness seemed to be insufficient, and the criticism increased.

Recently, even an NBA veteran spoke about him and his weight issues publically. This 31-year-old guard spoke about what is he doing wrong and compared his fitness with the 38-year-old LeBron James.

Zion Williamson received hate due to his weight.

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On Sirius XM radio, Austin Rivers, the star guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, spoke about Zion Williamson’s issues. He said, “This guy is the no 1 pick and one of the most hyped players from the high-school era we have ever seen. Maybe LeBron or Wembanyama are the only two guys who have been more hyped than him coming out of high school.”

He further added, “He has got all the resources around him to where you are like, does he not have a chef, or a nutritionist, a workout plan, a trainer who is putting him through daily workout, watching what he eats, what time he eats. You know these are things you want in place. That’s why we are wondering if these things are in place like LeBron spends a million on his body. You know you are 21, still playing like you are 25, like the sacrifices have to be made. So it’s baffling that we are talking about Zion not being in shape.”

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However, in response to his criticism, Williamson showed his ability to dominate on the floor against the Minnesota Timberwolves. He managed to put up 36 points and lead his team to a 121-107 victory. His brilliance on the floor, still, has not hidden him from constant criticism especially considering his significant injury history.

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Has Zion always been injury-prone?

Zion Williamson’s injury issues have prevented him from playing a full NBA season since his debut. The attacker has battled to stay on the floor over the last five years, appearing in over 60 games just in the 2020-21 season. When healthy, his tremendous athleticism and energy have boosted expectations, causing criticism from experts and former players to debate if he is living up to his expected potential.

USA Today via Reuters

The weight issues add another aspect to the continuing story, as questions about fitness and overall health enter the discussion around one of the NBA’s hottest prospects. Williamson’s weight and its influence on his performance have become a prominent topic as he navigates through his injury issues and struggles to live up to the great expectations placed on him.

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Written by:

Dhruv Shastry

720Articles

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Edited by:

Saumya Khanduja