The phrase, “once a Pelican, always a Pelican” might’ve been uttered at some point inside the New Orleans Pelicans’ four walls, but players — both past and present — should take heed of one disclaimer: few pelicans can reach depths rivaling that of Zion Williamson. Something of a “walking highlight” from March 4, 2025’s literal first play, Williamson opts for a full-on sprint during one standout third period play, recognizing a wide-open cutting lane against the Los Angeles Lakers’ stretched-too-thin defense. Trampoline-like in the single-step elevation that ensues, Williamson turns a teammate’s feed into an airborne battle against former one-game teammate Trey Jemison, conquering it with a poster-worthy “Statue of Liberty” jam. Turbocharged by NBA history’s first-ever 50,000-point scorer (regular-season plus postseason), the Los Angeles Lakers took a 21-point victory for themselves, but Williamson could be described as anything but inconspicuous, even in defeat. In just 26 minutes, Williamson offered a performance reminiscent of last season’s Play-In Tournament, erupting for 37 points (on 17-of-23 shooting), four rebounds, six assists, one steal, one block, and a +13 plus-minus. · Mar 5, 2025