The New Orleans Pelicans suspended forward Zion Williamson one game for a “violation of team policies,” executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin announced Friday.
Williamson will be out for Friday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers and will rejoin the team Saturday.
“This one game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards,” Griffin said. “His dedication to this organization is of paramount significance to us and to him. He has taken accountability for his actions and reaffirmed that commitment to the team today. I’m confident he will continue to evolve positively on and off the floor.”
Williamson addressed the suspension on Friday, mentioning that he had been late to team activities.
“I take full responsibility for this suspension,” he said. “I’ve worked extremely hard in rehab to get healthy to deliver for this team. There is no excuse for being late to team activities. I have apologized to Mrs. Benson and my teammates and coaches and I also owe an apology to the fans. I can and will be better as a teammate and member of this organization.”
The suspension comes just days after Williamson returned after missing 27 games with a hamstring injury. Williamson strained his left hamstring during an early November game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and first returned Tuesday in the team’s loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves. He was averaging 22.7 points, eight rebounds and 5.3 assists before the injury.
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