New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson remains on the sidelines as he continues his rehab on his broken foot.
The Pelicans announced in a statement today that the former No. 1 overall pick would continue his rehabilitation away from the team as he strives to return to the court this season.
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“As you can imagine, this has been a very difficult process for me,” Williamson said in a statement. “I know there is work to be done in my recovery before I can safely return to the court, but I will continue to take the time to get back on the court with my team and represent the Pelicans fans and New York City. . Orleans at the highest level.
“Basketball means everything to me, and I am grateful for the Pelicans organization and for everyone who has surrounded me with love and support throughout this journey: my family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, fans. and everyone who supported me and encouraged me when I needed it most. “
Williamson has not played this season after sustaining an offseason fracture to his right foot that required surgery. While it was initially thought that he would return at the beginning of the season, he has experienced multiple setbacks.
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On December 16, the team announced that “after further consultation and evaluation with Dr. Richard Ferkel of the Southern California Orthopedic Institute yesterday, Zion Williamson received a biological injection at the fracture site to stimulate bone healing in his right foot. “
Following the procedure, the Pelicans announced that Williamson would be reevaluated in four to six weeks.
Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin added that being away from the team would help Williamson focus solely on recovering from his injury.
“Since we notified everyone on December 16 of his last imaging, our medical team decided to re-adjust his rehabilitation to only partial weight-bearing activities. Please continue down that path, ”Griffin said in the statement.
“We also agreed that to put Zion in the best position to be successful, he will rehab away from the team at this time so he can focus on the task at hand.”
The Pelicans are currently 13-25 on the season, with the second-worst record in the Western Conference.
