Zion Lateef Williamson (born July 6, 2000) is an American professional basketball player for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA, playing power forward. A former Duke Blue Devil, he was the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft and made the NBA All-Rookie First Team (2020). In 2021, he became the fourth youngest NBA All-Star.
Born in Salisbury, North Carolina, he starred at Spartanburg Day School, earning South Carolina Mr. Basketball. At Duke, he won ACC Player of the Year and AP Player of the Year.
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Zion Williamson Net Worth
Zion Williamson has a net worth of $18 million. As the #1 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, he was projected to earn $45 million in his first four seasons. On July 23, 2019, Nike signed him to a $75 million, five-year shoe deal, the largest rookie shoe deal by annual pay.
In 2020, reports surfaced that Duke University allegedly provided him a $950,000 home as an improper benefit, which could have affected his college eligibility if publicly disclosed.
Early life
Zion Lateef Williamson was born on July 6, 2000, in Salisbury, North Carolina, to Lateef Williamson and Sharonda Sampson. Lateef was a High School All-American football player, and Sampson was a sprinter and later a teacher. She named Zion after Mount Zion.
The family moved to Florence, South Carolina, when he was two, and his parents later divorced. His mother married Lee Anderson, a former Clemson basketball player. Williamson, a Baptist, trained rigorously from age five, excelled in AAU basketball, and led Johnakin Middle School to a conference title.
Career
Zion Williamson scored 33 points on November 29, 2023, leading the Pelicans to a 124–114 win over the 76ers. On February 2, 2024, he had 33 points and a game-winning layup in a 114–113 victory over the Spurs.
In his play-in debut on April 16, he scored 40 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists before an injury in a 110–106 loss to the Lakers. In 2025, after missing 27 games, he returned on January 8 but was suspended on January 10 for team violations.
Personal Life
In June 2023, Zion Williamson announced in a YouTube video that he and his girlfriend were expecting a daughter due in November. Following the announcement, Moriah Mills, an adult film star, claimed on Twitter that she had recently been involved with Williamson.
Is Zion Williamson with Nike?
Zion Williamson is affiliated with Nike, specifically as a Jordan Brand athlete. His deal with Nike is one of the most significant endorsements in his portfolio.
Conclusion
Zion Williamson’s journey from a promising young talent to an NBA superstar is a story of hard work, dedication, and immense talent. With his significant earnings from basketball and endorsements, he has not only made a name for himself in sports but also in the world of celebrity wealth.
FAQs about Zion Williamson
- What makes Zion Williamson a standout player in the NBA?
- Zion’s exceptional athleticism and versatility on the court make him a standout player.
- What are Zion Williamson’s notable achievements in the NBA?
- His achievements include being the top draft pick and earning All-Star recognition.
- How has Zion Williamson impacted the New Orleans Pelicans?
- Williamson has become a key player for the Pelicans, bringing excitement and improved performance to the team.
- What is the significance of Zion’s endorsement deals?
- His endorsements, especially with Nike, highlight his marketability and appeal beyond basketball.
- What future prospects exist for Zion Williamson?
- Williamson has the potential for a long, successful NBA career and continued growth in endorsements and public profile.
