Zion Williamson was suspended one game by the New Orleans Pelicans for a violation of team policies and didn’t play in Friday’s 123-115 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.
The 24-year-old was late for Thursday’s team flight to Philadelphia, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Williamson had also been late for multiple practices this season, reported NBA insider Chris Haynes, citing sources.
“I take full responsibility for this suspension,” Williamson said in a statement Friday. “I’ve worked extremely hard in rehab to get healthy and deliver for this team. There is no excuse for being late to team activities.
“I have apologized to (owner Gayle) Benson and 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 the organization.”
Williamson will rejoin the team Saturday ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Boston Celtics.
“This one-game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards,” Pelicans executive vice president David Griffin said in a statement. “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.”
Williamson returned from a 27-game absence due to a hamstring strain in Tuesday’s loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The two-time All-Star sat out the second night of the back-to-back, a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.
He’s missed significant time every season he’s been in the NBA, including the entire 2021-22 campaign. In his seven games in 2024-25, he’s averaging 22.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists on 47.1% shooting.
The Pelicans were also without Herb Jones against the 76ers. The team announced Friday that he’s out indefinitely with a torn labrum in his shoulder.
New Orleans sits last in the Western Conference at 8-31.
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