After the Pelicans were eliminated from the NBA’s In-Season Tournament, New Orleans star Zion Williamson was the subject of criticism.
Williamson, who was on the wrong end of a 44-point loss against the Los Angeles Lakers, scored just 13 points while grabbing only two rebounds in the defeat. During the postgame coverage on TNT’s Inside the NBA, former NBA stars Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley had plenty to say.
O’Neal and Barkley both shared tough love for Williamson, who reportedly “does not listen” to the Pelicans when they offer advice about his diet and conditioning. O’Neal admitted that he struggled with many of the same issues when he first turned pro.
During his first game after the loss against the Lakers, Williamson produced one of his best performances of the season. He finished with 36 points (13-of-17 FG) as well as five rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block.
Zion Williamson on Shaq and Charles Barkley's comments about him: pic.twitter.com/TUEnzWVR5n
— Oh no he didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) December 12, 2023
Following the game, he was asked about the comments from O’Neal and Barkley. Here is what he said:
“If it comes from a great place [where] they just wanna see me do better, thank you. If it comes from anywhere else, everyone is entitled to their opinion. Can’t control that.”
This was a measured and thoughtful reaction from Williamson, who still has the talent to prove himself as one of the better players in the NBA when he is healthy and focused.
While not all critiques of Williamson are in good faith, O’Neal and Barkley are both coming at this from the perspective of players who have had similar experiences in the league.
