Why Does Zion Williamson Struggle to Stay in Shape?

By Jocelyn Alano June 06, 2024 13:23

There is no way a basketball enthusiast will regard Zion Williamson, an NBA power forward of for the New Orleans Pelicans, with the kind of athleticism power-slams he put on display. But what has plagued his NBA career thus far has been an array of untimely injuries and his even more pressing weight issues, with questions and concerns surrounding whether he'd be able to slim down and keep himself on the court for more than just the odd year.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zion Williamson (@zionwilliamson)

The Injury Struggles

Zion has been well, Zion when on the court, but his availability for games has been a concern since entering the NBA. He shows just how productive a player he can be when he plays, but you wouldn't know it all that much considering he's been bitted by the injury bug this year. He missed the entire 2021-22 season with a broken foot and also broke his thumb in the 2022 campaign. The result has been injuries that have greatly hindered his ability to master his craft on a nightly basis. And has missed nearly 60 percent of all games as a result of injuries so serious.

Weight-Related Criticism

In addition to all his injuries, Zion was criticized a lot because of his weight. He is 6'6, 284 pounds, and his physical condition was a cause for concern. Zion publicly declared to Stephen A Smith, that he is taken care of, but critics including NBA All-Star and Hall of Famers Shaq and Charles Barkley have openly said that they are worried that Zion will put on more weight and in turn will negatively affect his game and portability.

Zion's Own Words

Zion discussed some of these issues in a wide-ranging chat on the 'Gab's Arena podcast as well. He admitted the hardness of this, especially at a young age, and said that he wanted to seek wisdom and guidance to get through these things. Instead of targeting only weight loss, Zion spoke to improved longevity and durability with the mindset of the "right questions" when examining these problems.

A Look Ahead

Nevertheless, the obstacles do not deter Zion's resolve to clear these obstacles and bring his game up to another level. He hopes mentoring and giving himself a chance at new flexibility will help lengthen his career and see him realize the vast ability he has.

The Future

Finally, Zion Williamson's weight loss has not been as simple as losing a few pounds; this has more than one implication for his performance as an individual, as well as the question that has begun to take shape around where his career is going in the future. Although his talent and potential are undeniable, those challenges have made it difficult for him to stay on the court, and at his best, consistently. Still, with a focus on his improvement in fitness once he starts playing, as well as through some veteran guidance, Zion is very hopeful that he will thrive in the NBA.
As fans, we can only wish that Zion's NBA story is not limited to his wonderous athleticism and that he can find ways to flourish in difficult times.