Zion Williamson provides an intriguing perspective on the Boston playing experience.
Zion Williamson recently shared his perspective on playing in Boston during Monday night’s game between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Boston Celtics. This marked only the second time Williamson, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, played at TD Garden.
The initial game in Boston occurred during the 2020-21 season, coinciding with the Celtics’ first home game with fans in attendance after the easing of some COVID-19 restrictions.
Having experienced the full ambiance of TD Garden on Monday night, Williamson expressed admiration for the impressive atmosphere and overall experience.
Zion Williamson shared his appreciation for playing at TD Garden, describing it as a fantastic arena. He expressed the vibrant atmosphere and the love shown by the Boston Celtics’ fan base. Williamson acknowledged that being in such an environment brings out the competitive spirit in players. Despite his positive sentiments, the game ended in disappointment for the Pelicans as they lost 118-112 after squandering a 17-point lead. Nevertheless, Williamson had a solid performance, contributing 26 points on 11-of-18 shooting, along with four rebounds, three assists, and two steals in 31 minutes of play.
Catch every play – Basketball Live score, schedule, and results!
Despite not being Duke teammates, Zion Williamson and Celtics star Jayson Tatum share a lasting connection to the university. Tatum played at Duke during the 2016-17 season, subsequently being drafted No. 3 overall by the Celtics, while Williamson attended Duke in the 2018-19 season. Tatum’s loyalty to the Blue Devils is unwavering, and Williamson values the bond they formed, particularly when Tatum showed him around campus before his freshman year.
When asked about Tatum, Williamson expressed admiration, describing him as a great person since their early interactions. During the summer before Williamson’s freshman year, Tatum returned to Duke, and together with Amile Jefferson and Cam Reddish, they toured Durham, showcasing local spots. From the beginning, Williamson noted Tatum’s consistency in being a reliable and supportive figure.
Tatum fondly recalled the experience of showing Zion Williamson around Duke, emphasizing the significance of mentoring players at the university.
Reflecting on the shared time with Amile and Zion just before the latter’s freshman year, Tatum highlighted the importance of paying forward the support he received during his Duke days. Tatum mentioned the influence of players like Jahlil Okafor and Jabari Parker, who looked out for him at Duke, and expressed a commitment to maintaining an open-door mentality for those who follow the same path.
Impressed by Williamson’s remarkable college basketball performance, Tatum expressed happiness for his success and eagerness to witness the continued achievements of the talented player.