Zion Williamson Hits Weight Milestone at 264 Pounds, Lightest Since Joining NBA

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson has reached a significant personal milestone in his conditioning journey, now weighing 264 pounds according to ESPN's Michael Wright. This represents Williamson's lowest weight since being selected first overall in the 2019 NBA Draft and marks a substantial reduction from his listed weight of 284 pounds on NBA.com.

The weight loss holds particular financial significance due to specific clauses in Williamson's five-year, $197.2 million extension signed in 2022. His contract includes stipulations requiring him to keep his combined weight and body fat percentage below 295 to guarantee 20% of his salary for the 2025-26 season. At his current weight, Williamson is comfortably meeting these requirements.

Despite missing significant time earlier this season with a hamstring injury that sidelined him through November and December, Williamson has performed impressively since returning:

• Averaging 26.8 points over his last seven games

• Contributing 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists during this stretch

• Recording a season-high 40 points against the Sacramento Kings

  
  

• While Williamson's personal improvements provide a bright spot, the Pelicans continue to struggle:

• Current record: 14-43

• Positioned at the bottom of the Western Conference

• Virtually eliminated from playoff contention

The disconnect between Williamson's improving health and performance and the team's poor results raises questions about the roster construction and future direction of the franchise.

Despite New Orleans' challenging season, Williamson's conditioning progress offers hope that the former Duke standout may still develop into the franchise cornerstone the Pelicans envisioned when drafting him, potentially positioning him to lead a playoff-caliber team when surrounded by the right supporting cast.