Williamson Welcomes Accountability as Pelicans Integrate Looney and Poole
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Zion Williamson says the firm guidance he is receiving from executive vice president of basketball operations Joe Dumars is exactly what he wants as the New Orleans Pelicans prepare for the 2025-26 campaign.
“He’s going to hold me accountable, and as he holds me accountable, he’s going to give me a lot of responsibility as well, which I’m excited for,” Williamson told reporters on September 24. The 25-year-old forward—limited to 30 appearances last season—added that Dumars and general manager Troy Weaver have been “impressed” with his offseason conditioning.
Williamson said he has assured the new front-office duo that he will not let them down. “That helps a lot that they really believe in me,” he said.
Looney Sees Immediate Potential
Kevon Looney, who signed a two-year contract with New Orleans in free agency after eight seasons with Golden State, believes the roster is ready to climb the Western Conference standings. “It’s a young team that has a chance to be really special,” the veteran center said in a video released by the club. “Sometimes when you go to a team you feel that it’s a total rebuild, but I feel like they already had the pieces—they just had to be healthy.”
Poole Energized by Change of Scenery
Head coach Willie Green expects a boost from guard Jordan Poole, acquired from Washington over the summer. “We’re getting Jordan at a really key point in his career,” Green told Marc J. Spears of Andscape. “He’s excited to have an opportunity to compete.” Green noted that the 26-year-old brings championship experience from Golden State and a strong work ethic.
The Pelicans open training camp next week with hopes that a healthier lineup and added depth can push the franchise back into playoff contention.
Source: Hoops Rumors
