Zion Williamson has arrived at the New Orleans Pelicans’ training camp for the 2025-26 NBA season, showcasing a noticeably slimmer physique that has ignited excitement and speculation among fans and analysts alike. After years of battling weight issues and injuries, Williamson’s new look is being interpreted as a sign of renewed commitment to his health and performance on the court.
On September 23, during the Pelicans’ media day, the 25-year-old forward’s transformation was a hot topic. Many observers have expressed hope that this change could signal a turning point for Williamson, who has struggled to stay on the court since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. With only 214 appearances out of a possible 472 games, his availability rate stands at a concerning 45.3%. Injuries have plagued his young career, including issues with his knee, hamstring, and foot, which many analysts attribute to his previous weight, which once peaked at around 284 pounds.
However, the excitement surrounding Williamson’s transformation has not been without controversy. Former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho, while discussing the changes on his podcast, made a bold claim that Williamson’s slimmed-down figure might not be solely the result of hard work and a healthy diet. He suggested that the popular weight-loss drug Ozempic could be involved, stating, “I know Ozempic when I see it.” Acho’s comments stirred up a mix of reactions, highlighting the scrutiny Williamson has faced since entering the league.
In response to the speculation, Williamson addressed the changes directly during media day. He credited a comprehensive training plan developed with Pelicans performance coach Daniel Bove, which includes a diverse range of workouts from boxing to football drills. “We came up with a plan… I started noticing tangible changes last season,” Williamson said, expressing his satisfaction with his current state: “It feels good to feel good again.”
This transformation comes at a crucial time, as the Pelicans’ front office has implemented stricter accountability measures regarding Williamson’s fitness. His recent five-year, $197 million contract extension reportedly includes clauses that tie portions of his earnings to maintaining specific weight and body fat targets. This move underscores the organization’s commitment to ensuring Williamson’s long-term health and their investment in his potential.
Pelicans executive Joe Dumars has also made strategic roster moves, adding veterans like Kevan Looney and Jordan Poole to bolster the team’s playoff aspirations. The hope is that a healthier and more disciplined Williamson can help guide New Orleans into serious contention in the Western Conference.
Emmanuel Acho later clarified that his comments stemmed from a place of hope rather than skepticism. “Zion was supposed to be the next NBA superstar,” he remarked. “I just want to see it actually happen.” The pressure is now on Williamson to demonstrate that his transformation—regardless of its origins—can translate into tangible results on the court.
As the Pelicans gear up for the new season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Williamson can overcome his past challenges and fulfill the immense potential that has long been anticipated.