Blue Devil Country

Duke Basketball Product Zion Williamson Does 360 in Return From Injury

The former Duke basketball one-and-done and a current Blue Devil rookie pulled off viral dunks just over an hour apart.

Matt Giles

Former Duke basketball forward Zion Williamson
Former Duke basketball forward Zion Williamson / Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
In this story:

Some say Cooper Flagg's poster over Pitt 7-footer Guillermo Diaz Graham on Tuesday night now stands as the most magnificent Duke basketball slam in Cameron Indoor Stadium since Zion Williamson's 360 fastbreak flush against Clemson in 2019.

ALSO READ: Prime Duke Target Drops From Top Spot in Rankings

Speaking of that Blue Devil Zion 360, the 24-year-old New Orleans Pelicans forward did his best to replicate it on Tuesday night given the game was his first in two months. Early in the third quarter, albeit in a 104-97 home loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the slimmer-looking two-time All-Star proved his bounce remains intact following his extended recovery from a left hamstring strain:

Williamson, on a usage restriction for now but instantly back in the starting lineup, finished with 22 points, six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and one block in only 28 minutes of action.

He shot 9-for-15 from the field, 0-for-2 from three, and 4-for-9 at the charity stripe.

Through eight appearances this season, the 2019 No. 1 overall draft pick is averaging 22.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists.

As for the New Orleans Pelicans' other Duke basketball talent, one-time All-Star forward Brandon Ingram remains out of commission due to the left ankle sprain he sustained on Dec. 7.

The Pelicans (7-30) next host the Portland Trail Blazers (12-23) at 8 p.m. ET Wednesday.

ALSO READ: Complete List of Former Duke Players Currently in NBA

Stay tuned to Duke Blue Devils On SI for more Duke basketball news.

Published
Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

Home/Basketball