Pelicans' Zion Williamson proved it's too early to give up on him

When Zion Williamson entered the NBA in 2019, he was the first internet sensation to be drafted out of college. Williamson had been generating highlights since his time in high school. Unfortunately for NBA fans, Williamson's NBA highlights have been few and far between.

The explosive forward has struggled with injury issues throughout his tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans. He's had two healthy seasons out of six — hardly enough to improve as a player or build momentum. 

Even this season, Williamson has suited up just 27 times. Yet, on Tuesday, March 11, the explosive forward reminded the world what he's capable of, as his team downed the Los Angeles Clippers, 127-120. Williamson recorded 22 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds. 

During his postgame news conference, Williamson cut a confident figure.

“Shoutout to my teammates and coaches,” Williamson said. “They tell me to be myself and just keep hoopin'. When I’m myself, I don’t feel like nobody can stop me.”

A healthy Williamson is frightening. He's one of the strongest players on the planet. His low center of gravity and mind-boggling second jump make him a unique prospect on both sides of the floor. Furthermore, his ability to collapse a defense and consistently make the right pass has ensured he's more than just a rim threat. 

It's worth remembering that Williamson is young. At 24 years old, he has more than enough time to overcome the turbulent start to his career and make good on his undoubted potential. He has the confidence, skill set and physical attributes. All he needs to do is take care of his body and avoid injury. If he can do that, he will likely emerge as a perennial All-NBA talent within the next 18 months.

It's not too late for Williamson to become the star his old highlights predicted. His performance against the Clippers proves that he's still an elite talent. It's too early to give up on Williamson, but right now, it's hard to guess how much longer we can keep saying that.