Image Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Pelicans star, Zion Williamson to serve one-game suspension due to team policy breach

Williamson will next be available to be deployed against the Celtics on Jan. 12.

Image Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Zion Williamson made a stunning return after a length absence but will miss his first game and the reson is not an injury. The New Orleans Pelicans announced that the former No. 1 overall pick would be suspended for one game due to a violation of team policies.

The New Orleans Pelicans announced that they have issued a one-game suspension to Zion Williamson for "failing to meet [team] standards." pic.twitter.com/565RlmJtiz
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) January 10, 2025

Zion Williamson’s suspension came ahead of the crucial road game against the 76ers and before the flight to Philadelphia, Pelicans handed over the one-game ban. Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations, David Griffin, addressed the situation in a statement.

“This one-game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards. His dedication to this organization is of paramount significance to us and to him. He has taken accountability for his actions and reaffirmed that commitment to the team today. I’m confident he will continue to evolve positively on and off the floor,” David Griffin said.

As per sources via Chris Haynes, Zion Williamson has been late for multiple practices this season on top of being late for the team’s flight to Philadelphia. These incidents led to the one-game suspension. Pelicans considered this activity as a violation of team policy.

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Williamson issues public apology to Pelicans

Zion Williamson made a professional response to the suspension and issued a public apology to the team, ownership, and fans. “I take full responsibility for this suspension,” Williamson wrote. “I’ve worked extremely hard in rehab to get healthy to deliver for this team.

“There is no excuse for being late to team activities. I have apologized to Mrs. Benson, my teammates, and coaches, and I also owe an apology to the fans. I can and will be better as a teammate and member of this organization.”

Zion Williamson boosted Pelican’s camp after making a return against Minnesota Timberwolves. The former Duke student finished with 22 points in a loss, including a 360 dunk that made headlines on social media.

If his suspension stands, Williamson will be available for the clash against the Boston Celtics on Jan. 12.

Image Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

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A native of Jaipur, Rajasthan, journalist, and a complete soccer and basketball fan, he found the huge interest with basketball by watching videos of Allen Iverson and Tony Parker, but fell head over heels in love with the sport during the Warriors’ championship era (2015-2018). A sports game addict since his late PS1, he’s also passionate about the Eagles, Inter Miami and the Fever. He’s fortunate to have seen all his favorite teams win championships. He also has a special love for cricket and football (soccer), where he is a fan of Royal Challengers Bangalore and Barcelona.