Kevon Looney has wasted no time becoming a veteran voice inside the New Orleans Pelicans’ locker room. After signing a two-year, $16 million deal with the team in July, the former Golden State Warriors center has embraced a mentorship role — especially with Zion Williamson.
Speaking with EssentiallySports’ Mark Medina, Looney discussed how he’s tried to share his experience with the 25-year-old forward, whose health and availability have long been topics of discussion around the league.
“He came into training camp in great shape,” Looney said. “His body looked great. His routine, he’s keeping at what he needs to do to prepare to be on the court. He takes that really seriously. He’s seen and has learned what it takes to play every night.”
Looney’s advice to Williamson centers on one principle: consistency. “Being consistent in your work is the big message,” he added. “You can be viewed as a guy that is always hurt. But if you work on your body, your diet, and play every game, that narrative changes. I think I did that for myself. I think he can be the same way.”
The 29-year-old forward knows the challenges of overcoming injuries early in a career. Looney battled hip and core issues during his first few NBA seasons before becoming one of the league’s most dependable players — even earning the nickname “All-82 guy” for his durability with Golden State.
Since joining New Orleans, Looney has been sidelined with a preseason injury suffered during games in Australia, but he expects to make his debut soon. Despite being unable to play, he has remained vocal within the team, guiding a young roster that includes Williamson, Jordan Poole, and Trey Murphy III.
“Dealing with an injury while meeting new players in a new city is always difficult,” Looney said. “But having a staff and teammates like this — they’ve been real supportive. So I’m feeling good and excited to hopefully be coming back soon.”
The Pelicans have opened the 2025–26 season at 0–5, but Williamson has been a bright spot, averaging 23.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game while shooting efficiently inside.
Looney praised Williamson’s unique combination of power and agility. “He’s not the tallest guy, but he’s able to get to where he wants on the court,” he said. “He’s relentless. It’s difficult to do that in this league night in and night out. I’ve been really impressed by it.”
With championship experience and a reputation for steady leadership, Looney’s presence could prove valuable for a Pelicans team searching for direction. As he told Medina, his message to his teammates — including Williamson — is simple: “It’s a long season. Stay consistent, trust the work, and keep fighting through the adversity.”
