Pelicans star Zion Williamson is apparently “annoyed” by the chatter surrounding his physique following a recent report that alleged the team included a weight clause in his new max deal.
Williamson — who recently signed a five-year, $193 million rookie max contract with escalators up to $231 million — is said to be “bothered” that concerns about his weight have fostered a narrative that he doesn’t want to put in the work to be a great, according to The Athletic.
“From what I’ve heard, it truly bothers him because people use his apparent weight gains in the past as proof that Williamson doesn’t like to work or doesn’t care about doing what’s necessary to be great,” William Guillory reported, noting that it’s not about “people making fat jokes,” which he’s dealt with throughout his career.
Williamson’s new contract reportedly states that the Pelicans big man will have periodic weigh-ins throughout the entirety of his new deal, and stipulates that his weight and body fat percentage must be below a combined 295. If his weight isn’t within the threshold of the deal, he could lose an amount of guaranteed money.
Williamson — who is currently listed on the NBA’s website as 6-foot-6 and 284 pounds — allegedly knew the Pelicans came into negotiations with specific demands related to his conditioning and health.
The former first-overall pick underwent surgery last July for a fractured fifth metatarsal in his right foot and missed the entire 2021–22 season. Williamson appeared to put on weight while recovering from the injury and is said to have weighed more than 300 pounds at one point.
Williamson, however, has been taking the necessary steps to ensure that he is in shape for the upcoming season. The Duke product is said to be working with personal trainer Jasper Bibbs and has also hired a private chef.
