By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Zion Williamson’s return has been delayed already, though there is a significant setback in his recovery from his recent foot surgery.
Williamson, the first pick of the 2019 NBA draft, still experiences soreness in his right foot and is “likely to be shut down from basketball activities for the time being”, as reported by The Athletic’s Shams Charania.
The New Orleans Pelicans shortly after released a statement concerning Williamson’s condition, which reads:
“After experiencing persistent soreness in his right foot, Zion Williamson underwent medical imaging which shows a regression in the bone healing of his fifth metatarsal. As a result, the volume and intensity of his training will be reduced for an extended period to help allow for further bone healing. Additional updates will be provided as warranted.”
Williamson, 21, has yet to practice without restrictions since the right foot surgery during the 2021 offseason. A right knee injury kept him off the court long-term in his rookie season, but in 2020-21 he earned his first All-Star honor. He averaged 27 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per contest in the 2020-21 campaign.