New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson recently addressed criticisms from NBA legends Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal regarding his physical condition. Following his team’s victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, Williamson faced questions about the comments made by these two former players.
Williamson stated that he values criticism if it comes from a genuine desire to see him improve. “If it comes from a great place and a place where they just want to see me do better, thank you.” However, he also added that he has no control over opinions that might come from different intentions.
“If it comes from a great place and a place where they just want to see me do better, thank you. But if it comes from anywhere else, everybody entitled to their own opinion.”
Zion Williamson’s response to Shaq & Charles Barkley’s criticism of him 🗣️pic.twitter.com/ksiXdlJU2z https://t.co/ZmqWRO2Xao
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 12, 2023
Charles Barkley, known for his straightforward opinions, said Williamson is not in shape, relies on his natural talent, and lacks commitment to running during games. Barkley, who faced similar challenges at the start of his career in 1984, compared it to his own experience.
He credited his transformation into an all-time great to the harsh words and guidance from his then-teammate Moses Malone. Barkley expressed concern that Williamson might not have a similar mentor to guide him.
Barkley comments were harsh, but he wanted Williamson to reach his full potential. The 23-year-old Pelicans player, known for his athleticism and talent, showed his capabilities in the game against the Timberwolves, scoring 36 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block, leading his team to a 121-107 victory.
Stephen A. Smith slams Zion Williamson for his conditioning
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has also made some interesting claims about Williamson’s conditioning. On his show “First Take,” Smith commented on Williamson’s physical appearance, particularly criticizing his fitness.
Smith said that Williamson appeared to have a noticeable belly while at the free-throw line, calling it “shameful.” He further added that chefs in New Orleans love him. “They’re looking for him. Every chef there wants to meet him because they know he’ll show up to their restaurant. The word out on Zion Williamson is that he’ll eat the table.” Smith stated.
These statements follow Smith’s earlier criticism of Williamson during an appearance on “The Stephen A. Smith Show,” where he criticized Williamson for his performance against the Los Angeles Lakers in the In-Season Tournament semifinals. Smith accused Williamson of lacking leadership and not making an effort to motivate his team. He even said that it seemed like Williamson had shown up for the game after eating an entire buffet.
Smith emphasized that the Pelicans’ success, including a potential run to the Western Conference Finals, depends on Williamson being in top physical shape. Williamson, who averages 22.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game this season, remains a key player in the team’s goals.