Zion Williamson Responds To Criticism About His Weight and Conditioning, Says Everyone Is “Entitled To Their Own Opinion”

Zion Williamson’s weight, fitness, and diet have been a topic of conversation among fans and media personalities since the inception of his career. Listed at 6-foot-6, 284 pounds with a frame often likened to that of an NFL lineman; the New Orleans baller has also become the subject of many fat jokes and offensive rumors. 

“The Pelicans have repeatedly stressed to Williamson that his diet and conditioning need to improve,” Christian Clark of the New York Times-Picayune wrote last week. “Williamson, multiple team sources have told The Times-Picayune, ‘doesn’t listen.'”

NBA Hall of Famers Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley also spoke on Williamson’s conditioning. Meanwhile, Stephen A Smith fired shots at the baller, sparking debate about how far journalists and media personalities go when reporting a story, as many argued the difference between a malicious attack and reporting facts.  

“The conditioning, I saw the brother go to the free throw line; he looked like he had a belly,” Smith said. “It is shameful. You got chefs in New Orleans — I’m not exaggerating, I’m quoting people — You got chefs in New Orleans who love him. They’re looking for him. Every chef there wants to meet him because they know he’ll show up to their restaurant. The word out on Zion Williamson is that he’ll eat the table.”

However, despite the remarks, Williamson tapped into his skill and erupted with a season-high 36 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

When asked, after his dominant performance, if the ‘noise’ of the media goes a little far when it comes to critiquing him, Williamson said: “At the end of the day, I can’t control what no grown man do. Can’t control what no grown adult does. All I can do is control the things I can control, lock in on myself, lock in on my teammates, coaches, the Pelicans, and everybody in the city, and try to win.”

“If it comes from a great place [where] they just wanna see me do better, thank you. If it comes from anywhere else, everyone is entitled to their opinion. Can’t control that,” Williamson said.

Zion also mentioned how much the New Orleans Pelicans mean to him and how much they encouraged him before and during Monday’s game.

“If you love the city, which I very much do, it’ll love you back. So to the city, to the fans… thank you. I’m going to do my best not to let y’all down,” he said.

Check out the full clip of Zion below. What are your thoughts?