New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson will be donating $100,000 to the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Tragedy fund in the wake of the Bourbon Street tragedy that occurred New Year’s Day. ESPN’s Malika Andrews was first to report.
A man drove a truck into a crowd at Bourbon and Canal streets in New Orleans around 3:15 a.m., killing 15 people and injuring at least 30 others.
“As a father, son and someone who loves the community, this hit me hard,” Williamson told ESPN. “This isn’t just about money —but standing together and making sure no one feels alone.”
Williamson was the first overall pick by New Orleans in 2019 and is representing the Pelicans in his sixth season.
In the wake of the deadly attack on Bourbon street earlier this week, Pelicans star Zion Williamson is donating $100,000 to the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s Tragedy fund, telling ESPN: “As a father, son and someone who loves the community, this hit me hard. This isn’t just…
— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) January 3, 2025
Pelicans and Saints Joint Statement
Both the Pelicans and New Orleans Saints franchises released a joint statement on Thursday regarding the tragedy.
“We remain heartbroken by the tragic events that claimed innocent lives in our city yesterday morning. Among those lost was Matthew Tenedorio, a valued member of the ASM New Orleans video production team. Matthew was young, talented, and had a bright future, helping deliver quality content for both the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with the Tenedorio family and everyone affected by this senseless act of terrorism. Together, as a city, state, and region, we will come back stronger from this tragedy.”
Playing With Heavy Hearts
The Pelicans were in Miami to play the Heat when the incident occurred, and were deeply saddened by the incident.
“A senseless act of violence,” New Orleans head coach Willie Green said. “We’ve discussed it a bit with our players. But we’re just living in times and in a world where you just don’t know where you’re safe. Schools, churches, people should be able to go out and have a good time and walk the streets. It’s devastating. And I can only imagine what those families are going through, what they have to deal with now for the rest of their lives.”
New Orleans will play its first home game since the incident against the Washington Wizards on Friday.
