Zion Posterizes DPOY In Pelicans Return

Game Recap

CJ McCollum contributed 24 points, while Zion Williamson notched 23 points and secured 7 rebounds as the New Orleans Pelicans emerged victorious, beating the Memphis Grizzlies 111-104 in their season-opening clash on Wednesday night.

McCollum demonstrated his scoring prowess, going 8 of 16 from the field, with an impressive 6 of 11 from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Williamson delivered 12 of his points in the fourth quarter to thwart any potential Memphis comeback. Brandon Ingram also had a solid performance, concluding the game with 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Jonas Valanciunas chipped in with 12 points and 12 rebounds.

New Orleans coach Willie Green attributed the success to the collective effort of all his players.



Their defence truly shone, as they out rebounded the Grizzlies 52-37 and managed to limit the Grizzlies' field-goal efficiency to 41.8% and their three-point shooting to just 27.9%.

Watch the full game highlights in the video below:


The Return of Zion

During the game, Zion Williamson sent a clear message to the league as he fearlessly challenged the Defensive Player of the Year, Jaren Jackson Jr. When he drove down the lane and went for a dunk, he exposed one of the best rim protectors in the game, catching Jackson on a poster dunk.


This was followed by another impressive slam by Zion, as he was set up with a beautiful alley-oop pass from Brandon Ingram, resulting in another score.


Zion attempted once more to challenge Jaren Jackson Jr. for a second poster, but on this occasion, he was humbled and reminded that he was facing the DPOY.


This just goes to show that when Zion is healthy, the New Orleans Pelicans become a dangerous team, and many more players may soon find themselves on the receiving end of a poster dunk.

Credits:
Sportsnet
NBA