Pelicans suspend former Duke basketball talent Zion Williamson

Three days after New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson produced a very encouraging performance in his first game back after a two-month injury absence on Tuesday night, the 2018-19 Duke basketball forward lost a second consecutive start.

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The Pelicans rested Williamson for Wednesday night’s eventual 119-100 home loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. That was understandable. After all, the 24-year-old, two-time NBA All-Star and former No. 1 draft pick, logged 28 minutes last night, finishing with 22 points, six rebounds, four assists, three steals and a block in a 104-97 home loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

But it appears his absence in Friday night’s 123-115 road win over the Philadelphia 76ers was entirely Williamson’s fault.

New Orleans suspended the 6-foot-6 bruiser for the contest due to a violation of team policies.

He was late for the team’s flight to Philadelphia on Thursday. However, according to Pelicans head coach Willie Green, the suspension was due to more than just that late arrival.

“There were several occasions that led up to this,” Green explained to the media before the team’s win in Philadelphia, “and that’s how we came to this decision.”

A Pelicans press release included an apology from Zion Williamson.

“I take full responsibility for this suspension,” he said. “I have worked very hard in rehab to stay healthy and perform for this team. There is no excuse for being late to team activities. I have apologized to (owner Gayle Benson) and my teammates and coaches, and I also owe a sorry to the fans.

“I can and will be better as a teammate and member of this organization.”

Meanwhile, as the Pelicans (8-31) prepare to welcome Williamson back to the fold for their road bout against the Boston Celtics (27-11) at 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, the other basketball product of the Duke team’s starting forward Brandon Ingram remains out of action with a sprained left ankle.

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