Mar 15, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) is interviewed by the media after the game at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Zion Williams Made NBA History In Pelicans-Mavs Game

Originally posted on Fastbreak on SI | By Ben Stinar | Last updated Feb 21, 2025 10:10 PM ET

On Friday night, the New Orleans Pelicans are playing the Dallas Mavericks in Texas.

Zion Williamson had 25 points, seven rebounds, two assists and one steal while shooting 9/12 from the field in his first 18 minutes of playing time.

The former Duke supertar also made NBA history.

Via Antonio Daniels: "With those FTs Zion is the 3rd fastest active player to 5000 pts.
Luka-194 games
LeBron-197 games
Zion-203 games"

With those FTs Zion is the 3rd fastest active player to 5000 pts.
Luka-194 games
LeBron-197 games
Zion-203 games
— Antonio Daniels (@adaniels33) February 22, 2025

While Williamson has missed a lot of time due to injuries, he is clearly among the best players in the NBA when healthy.

The 25-year-old came into play with averages of 24.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.3 steals per contest while shooting 54.7% from the field and 25.0% from the three-point range in 18 games.

Zion Williamson is the 3rd fastest active player to reach 5,000 career points.

Only LeBron & Luka did it faster. pic.twitter.com/6UEUsfAfpX
— Real Sports (@realapp_) February 22, 2025

The Pelicans have had a lot of injuries this season, so they are currently the 15th seed (last place) in the Western Conference with a 13-42 record in 55 games.

They have gone 1-9 over their last ten.

Following the Mavs, the Pelicans will play their next game on Sunday when they return home to host Chris Paul and the San Antonio Spurs.

This article first appeared on Fastbreak on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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