One and Done: Zion Williamson declares for the 2019 NBA Draft
Duke’s standout freshman forward Zion Williamson has decided to take his talents to the NBA. After just one campaign at Duke University, the man child is ready for the next chapter of his career. Williamson announced his decision on Monday via Instagram. The 6’7 284 pounder stated “This was the best year of my life” also thanking Duke fans and staff in the post.
It was no surprise to me or anyone else when the news was released. Zion had one of the greatest freshman runs that I can recall. The kid from Spartansburg, South Carolina took the basketball world by storm with his fascinating athletic ability and Youtube dunk videos.
Drawing early comparisons to LeBron James the kid definitely lived up to the hype. In his lone season in Durham, NC he averaged 22.6 ppg to go along with 9 rpg. The one thing that captured my attention was his skill to pass the rock. Although Williamson only averaged 2.1 assists per game you can observe that the court vision is there.
Duke got bounced out of the NCAA tournament way earlier than expected. The Blue Devils were defeated 68-67 by the Tom Izzo led Michigan State Spartans in the Elite 8. In his last collegiate game, Zion poured in 24 points and snatched down 14 rebounds. Duke Head Coach Mike Krzyzewski has raved about Williamson all year long.
Coach K sat down with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith earlier today for a brief interview. Krzyzewski says “He is the most unique athlete I’ve ever coached at Duke” that is extremely high praise from a decorated coach.
In this year’s upcoming draft, Zion is projected to be the number one overall pick. His college running mates R.J. Barrett and Cam Reddish will also be top 10 picks. Many analysts think Williamson will one day be the cornerstone of a franchise, and I couldn’t agree more. In my opinion, at this moment, I don’t see LeBron James in him, I detect more of a Larry “Grandmama” Johnson type of player.
One who is crazy athletic, can rebound at a high level for his position but needs to work on the jump shot at the next level. Being a Duke fan I hate to see Zion depart, but I’m happy for him and his family. He has accomplished what he has set out to do, along the way capturing numerous awards in the process.
Williamson won the John R. Wooden National Player of the Year award, and it wasn’t even close. Also, he was the ACC Player of the Year, and to put the icing on the cake seized the Naismith Player of the Year award.
However the NBA Lottery balls fall this summer whoever gets that number one pick will get a gem. Zion Williamson is definitely as advertised and then some.
Mark has been covering Sports and Entertainment for the past six years. His work has been featured on Bleacher Report, ESPN, Fox Sports, Teen Vogue, and many other websites.
