NEW ORLEANS — Zion Williamson was finally cleared for takeoff, but he sent the NBA and the Smoothie King Center into delirium by barely leaving his feet.
After some largely forgettable quick and monitored stints, Williamson shook off the nerves and woke up a sleepy crowd in unexpected fashion during his NBA debut, launching tippy-toed 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to bring the New Orleans Pelicans back into contention against the San Antonio Spurs.
An anxious and hopeful fanbase was rewarded for 44 games of patience during a mini-explosion, as Williamson scored 17 straight points — including four triples — to announce his presence.