Just as Zion Williamson was discovering some motion on the court after a lengthy injury absence, the New Orleans Pelicans announced that the star forward would be suspended for one game due to a violation of team policies.

The suspension came after Williamson was late for Thursday’s team flight to Philadelphia, leading to him missing Friday’s NBA matchup against the 76ers. The timing of the announcement came just two hours before tipoff.

Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations, David Griffin, addressed the situation in a statement and said: “This one-game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards. His dedication to this organization is of paramount significance to us and to him. He has taken accountability for his actions and reaffirmed that commitment to the team today. I’m confident he will continue to evolve positively on and off the floor.”

Williamson’s response followed and issued a public apology to the team, ownership, and fans. “I take full responsibility for this suspension,” Williamson wrote. “I’ve worked extremely hard in rehab to get healthy to deliver for this team.

“There is no excuse for being late to team activities. I have apologized to Mrs. Benson, 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.”

The suspension news overshadowed the very recent moment of optimism in the Pelicans fanbase following Williamson’s return earlier in the week. He showed flashes of his evasive potential, scoring 22 points in a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, including a highlight-reel 360 dunk that quickly made the rounds on social media.

Williamson dunks against the Timberwolves

Williamson won’t play against the 76ers ( 

Image:

Getty)

Williamson’s one-game suspension continues the growing narrative around his struggles to stay on the court. Since entering the league as the No. 1 overall pick in 2019, he has missed more than 255 games due to injuries, including the entire 2021 season with a broken foot.

The two-time NBA All-Star is averaging 22.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists on 47 percent shooting. His inability to string together long stretches of availability continues to frustrate Pelican fans, who have even considered supporting the team if they made the decision to trade him.

“Hasn’t he missed enough games already?” one fan asked, while another sarcastically added, “Glad he’s getting some much-needed rest after playing one game in the past two months.”

Other fans took aim at the team’s choice: “So you basically punish the fans for his tardiness.” Another pointed to the emotional toll of being a Pelicans fan overall and said: “Pelicans fans really have an emotionally abusive relationship with Zion. One day he does a 360 windmill, the next day he gets suspended for being late to a team plane.”

The Pelicans will head into the 76ers matchup on a two-game losing streak. Should Williamson’s penalty stand, he’ll next be available to be deployed against the Boston Celtics on Jan. 12.