New Orleans Pelicans Suspend Zion Williamson One Game for Missing Team Flight

New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson has been suspended one game for violating team policy, which reportedly involved missing a team flight.

The New Orleans Pelicans announced on Friday that Zion Williamson has been suspended for one game due to a violation of team policy. As a result, Williamson missed the Pelicans' game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday. He is set to rejoin the team on Saturday and will be available for their Sunday game against the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics.

According to multiple reports, Williamson's suspension stems from his failure to catch a team flight on Thursday, leaving his teammates waiting for his arrival. This incident is not an isolated one, as Williamson has reportedly been late to other team gatherings. The Pelicans have not publicly disclosed the specific reason for Williamson's suspension, citing only a violation of team policy.

New Orleans Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin addressed Zion Williamson's one-game suspension, stating, “This one game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards.” Griffin emphasized the importance of Williamson's dedication to the organization, saying, “His dedication to this organization is of paramount significance to us and to him.” Griffin expressed confidence in Williamson's ability to learn from his mistakes, adding, “He has taken accountability for his actions and reaffirmed that commitment to the team. I'm confident he will continue to evolve positively on and off the floor.”

The New Orleans Pelicans announced that they have issued a one-game suspension to Zion Williamson for "failing to meet [team] standards." pic.twitter.com/565RlmJtiz

— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) January 10, 2025

Williamson's suspension comes after he missed 27 games due to a strained left hamstring. He returned to the court on Tuesday, scoring 22 points in a loss to Minnesota. This season, Williamson has averaged 22.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game in seven appearances.

Williamson took responsibility for his actions in a statement released by the team. “I take full responsibility for this suspension,” he said. “I've worked extremely hard in rehab to get healthy to deliver for this team.” Williamson acknowledged that there was no excuse for his tardiness, stating, “There's no excuse for being late to team activities.” He apologized to the team's owner, Gayle Benson, his teammates, coaches, and fans, saying, “I have apologized to Mrs. (Gayle) 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.”