Zion Williamson Scores Career-High 32 Points, Makes NBA-Rookie History Joining Ranks Of Michael Jordan

Zion Williamson has been highly productive since making his NBA debut in late January and recorded a new career-high 32 points Thursday night in a 123-118 home loss to the Thunder. Although New Orleans lost, Williamson’s performance proved to be historic as he now joins Michael Jordan as the only other rookie to score 20 points or more in eight of his first ten career games.

He previous career-high was set just two games before when he scored 31 against the Trailblazers. Through ten games, the 19-year-old is averaging 22.1 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting 57.6% from the field while playing 27.4 minutes per game.

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The way he’s been scoring is the most impressive part. He’s averaging two dunks and nine layups a game compared to just one mid-range shot attempt and 11 three-point attempts through 10 games. His body control and his ability to use his speed on fast breaks gives him an advantage over players regardless of their position. When opposing players switch on defense, Williamson is able to use his strength to post up players and get to the rim on several occasions with just one dribble.

Following the game Williamson spoke to the media about his effectiveness. “My ability to get to the free-throw line. I am just going to keep going in there in drawing as much attention as I can. When I do that, I have open kick-outs. For me, it is about just trying to make the right plays on the offensive end.”

New Orleans is 5.5 games behind Memphis for the 8th playoff spot in the Western Conference and are now 5-5 with Williamson in the lineup.