New Orleans, LA — Zion Williamson came off the bench for the first time in his NBA career on Sunday, logging limited minutes after missing five games with a right hip adductor strain. Interim coach James Borrego kept the 25-year-old forward in reserve so he could finish the contest, a strategy Williamson said “allowed me to close the game.”
The former No. 1 pick, who has already sat out 16 games this season because of four separate injuries, is averaging 21.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists. “Rehabbing’s not fun,” he admitted, adding that offseason conditioning has shortened his recovery times. New Orleans, off to a 5-22 start, hopes his return will steady the lineup.
Another bright spot for the Pelicans has been Bryce McGowens. Signed to a two-way contract over the summer, the fourth-year shooting guard has earned steady playing time. “I’m super blessed to be in an organization that believes and trusts [me],” he said, noting his role revolves around “doing whatever the team needs” to win.
In Memphis, Ja Morant delivered 21 points and 10 assists on Friday after missing 10 games with a right calf strain. The All-Star guard shot 7-for-20 and committed four turnovers in just over 25 minutes. “I was forced to get some shots up,” Morant said, adding that a few attempts should have resulted in free throws.
Meanwhile, Spurs legend Tony Parker attended Saturday’s NBA Cup semifinals and praised rookies Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper for their fearless play. “That’s how I was. That’s how Manu [Ginóbili] was,” Parker noted.
Source: Hoops Rumors
