Zion Williamson has been labelled a ‘generational talent’ by his fitness coach as the New Orlean Pelicans star is finally set to return to the court ahead of the new NBA season.
Williamson was a heavily hyped prospect coming out of Duke when he was selected first overall in the 2019 NBA Draft. His size and weight has were concerns given his spectacular vertical ability, and the issues have morphed into one of the biggest storylines in the sport.
The 2020 All-Star was absent for the entirety of last season as he focused on rehabilitating a foot injury. However, Williamson is now fit and raring to go as the Pelicans eye a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Williamson spent two months in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, working alongside strength and conditioning coach Jasper Bibbs. The 22-year-old worked out twice a day and strictly adhered to a detailed nutrition plan to work on his body composition - and Bibbs is excited for fans to see the on-court results.
“They’ll be excited,” Bibbs told The Athletic. “They’ll be excited to see such a generational talent playing the game he loves, the joy he shows on the court and the athleticism he brings to the game. I think people are going to be very excited. You can just see how happy he is when he gets to step on the court and show people what he can do.”
Williamson is undoubtedly one of the best athletes of his generation, combining agility, vertical leap, size and power in a way that has arguably never been seen before. It appears Bibbs has ensured Williamson remains dedicated ahead of what is set to be a key campaign for the power forward.
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“He’s in fantastic shape,” Bibbs continued. “He’s been committed to putting in the work day in and day out. I’m really proud of what he’s been able to accomplish. He’s a better athlete now than he’s ever been.”
He added: “I’m very happy with his commitment and the progress he’s made, which has allowed him to be in such a great place mentally and physically.”
Bibbs didn’t specify how much weight Williamson has lost, but he revealed the superstar’s body composition has significantly improved. After missing the entire 2021/22 season, Williamson will return to the Pelicans in shape and desperate to lead New Orleans to success.
