Zion Williamson says that he feels healthier and more focused than he has in years. “It just feels good to feel good. I feel really good,” the Pelicans star said about his offseason body transformation.
The 25-year-old forward explained that improved fitness allows him to stay on the court longer and move faster. “All my moves are faster, swifter… it means a lot for my game,” Williamson added.
During Pelicans Media Day, Williamson credited his summer training regimen for the progress, which included basketball drills, boxing, and football-style exercises. He said the combination has enhanced his agility, strength, and overall performance.
Building relationships with teammates and coaches was another offseason priority. “The focus this past summer was to build a relationship with Joe and Troy and just stay locked in on the game,” he said, referring to Pelicans leadership.
Mentorship from Pelicans Vice President Joe Dumars also played a key role. Williamson noted, “I know he sees the game in a way similar to how I was trained. We see the game in similar ways.”
The forward emphasized that talent alone is not enough to reach greatness. “Greatness is every day. Even when you don’t want to do it, no matter the adversity, you do it every day,” he said, highlighting the importance of consistent effort.
Continuity with head coach Willie Green helps Williamson maintain focus on and off the court. “He can talk to me and I can talk to him. We have that relationship,” he explained.
Leadership responsibilities are also top of mind for Williamson, especially with roster changes this season. “Whatever the team needs, that’s what I’ll do,” he said, praising new additions like Kevon Looney and Jordan Poole for bringing championship-level experience to the locker room.
Despite the departures of Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, Williamson said he feels motivated rather than pressured. He intends to guide younger players while continuing to elevate his own performance.
Williamson described his current state as reminiscent of his college and high school days. “I haven’t felt like this since college, high school, just where I can walk into the gym and feel good,” he said, underscoring the significance of his offseason transformation.
The Pelicans are expected to rely heavily on Williamson’s leadership and revitalized physical condition as they begin the 2025–26 NBA season, aiming to compete at the highest level in the Western Conference.
