An Open Letter from Zion Williamson to the New Orleans Pelicans and the Entire Pelicans Community Dear Pelicans Family, As I sit down to write this letter, I am overcome with gratitude, appreciation, and intense emotion for the amazing journey we have taken together. New Orleans became more than just the city where I played basketball—it became home. You welcomed me with open arms, believed in me through all the highs and lows, and have been the driving force behind my development as a player and a person. I am now filled with gratitude, appreciation, and deep emotion for the amazing journey we have shared.
All of my teammates, both current and former, are my brothers. I am the athlete I am today because of the struggles we have endured together, the obstacles we have overcome, and the triumphs we have shared. I have learned so much about perseverance, collaboration, and resilience from every practice, game, and time spent in the locker room. Your dedication, enthusiasm, and support motivate me to improve every day.
I want to express my gratitude to my coaches and the Pelicans organization as a whole for supporting and believing in me. You have made an investment in my growth, pushed me to get better, and given me the direction I need to succeed in the NBA. Your leadership has been crucial to my development since my freshman season. There are always going to be challenges along the way, and I value every lesson you’ve taught me, every encouraging remark, and every chance I’ve had to prove myself.
Thank you to the Pelicans supporters, who are the lifeblood of this team. Every time I take the court, I am inspired by your unwavering support, enthusiasm, and vitality. Your voices have carried me through times of hardship and buoyed me in times of victory, whether I was in the Smoothie King Center or watching from a distance. I will always be appreciative of your unwavering faith in me and our team.
The city of New Orleans is unlike any other. It’s a resilient, heartfelt, and soulful place. Beyond basketball, the community has shown me love and affection. I have seen personally this city’s resilience, its ability to come together, and its pride in its citizens. It is a privilege for me to wear the Pelicans jersey and represent this city.
Know that I’m determined to give it my all for this team, my teammates, and the city that has given me so much as I continue on this journey. The love and support you have all given me fuels my passion for this game, and I swear to never stop working to make you proud and help this team succeed.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart, New Orleans.
With appreciation and affection,
Williamson, Zion