Zion Williamson is back, folks, and it seems like nobody is happier about this development than his teammates on the New Orleans Pelicans.
Williamson finished with a career-high 43 points against the Timberwolves, including 33 points in the second half and each of the final 14 points scored for the Pelicans. It was a dominant performance that deserved celebration as New Orleans secured a victory and now owns the best record in the Western Conference.
After the final buzzer, the former No. 1 pick was about to begin a post-game interview with sideline reporter Jennifer Hale. But Williamson’s teammates had other plans as guards CJ McCollum and Jose Alvarado snuck up behind him to surprise him with an ice water bath.
"It's always great to get a win, I love winning, this team loves winning, this organization loves winning, on any given day a win is great."
Our MVP Zion after a career high 43 points and a W tonight 🔥@PelicansNBA | #Pelicans |📺:BSNO pic.twitter.com/ZeJvemUZBz
— Bally Sports New Orleans (@BallySportsNO) December 29, 2022
Pelicans guard Devonte’ Graham, however, was very courteous.
He knew what was about to happen to Williamson so he made sure to gently nudge Hale out of the way so that her microphone, outfit, hair, and makeup were not ruined by the celebration.
Thanks for having my back @Devonte4Graham ! You da best!!! https://t.co/GTnnUG6687
— Jennifer Hale (@JenHale504) December 29, 2022
She tweeted after the game, thanking Graham for having her back.
This was a very thoughtful, helpful decision by Graham. Once he finished helping Hale, meanwhile, Graham then joined Alvarado and McCollum by dousing Williamson with ice water.
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