Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
New Orleans Pelicans rookie Zion Williamson was the most hyped prospect coming into the NBA since LeBron James. On Tuesday night, Zion’s name was mentioned once more with LeBron following a dominant performance against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Of course, Zion did more than just throw down incredible alley-oop slams against the Trail Blazers. Portland never had an answer for the 6-foot-6 forward’s unmatched athleticism and strength. The rookie went off inside the paint, made frequent trips to the free-throw line and joined NBA history.
Zion’s unbelievable performance now puts him in an exclusive club with LeBron, Kevin Durant and Luka Doncic. While we’ve seen some ridiculous rookie seasons in recent years, Zion’s play as of late and at this age is remarkable. He’s practically unstoppable on the court and he’s still just starting to get his feel for the NBA. He’s providing plenty of highlights this season, too.
The 31-point, nine-rebound and five-assist masterpiece wasn’t his only historic mark on the night either. Zion became the third player with seven 20-plus point games in his first 10 career NBA appearances in the last 30 seasons. The only other two to accomplish it, NBA legends Grant Hill and Shaquille O’Neal.
Zion is just getting started with the NBA career and we’re likely only getting a taste of what’s to come. If he keeps this up, though, hitting historic marks will become as routine for him as jaw-dropping dunks,