Blue Devil Country

Duke Basketball Pro Sends Ball Deep Into Stands for Surging Pelicans

New Orleans is on a winning streak, largely thanks to the prowess of former Duke basketball one-and-done Zion Williamson.

Matt Giles

Photo credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
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Zion Williamson soared for the New Orleans Pelicans in Sunday night's 116-103 road win over an Atlanta Hawks squad that had won three straight. The 2018-19 Duke basketball superstar finished with 27 points, six rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks in helping to extend the Pelicans' winning streak to four games.

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The 23-year-old Williamson, a two-time All-Star but snubbed from this year's showcase, shot 10-for-14 from the field and 7-for-10 at the charity stripe across his team-high 36 minutes on the floor.

In addition to his playing time, Williamson's insane leaping ability, reminiscent of his Duke basketball playing days, is another sign that the former No. 1 overall draft pick, averaging 22.1 points, 5.6 boards, and 5.2 assists per contest this season, is arguably in or at least near the best shape of his five-year pro career.

Check out Zion Williamson's impressive motor on defense in transition as he chased down Atlanta's Vit Krejci and blocked his layup attempt several rows into the crowd:

As for the Pelicans' other NBA Blue Devil centerpiece, 26-year-old forward Brandon Ingram tallied only seven points against the Hawks but added seven rebounds, 10 assists, and one steal in his 32 minutes of action.

New Orleans (39-25), No. 5 in the Western Conference standings, next hosts the Cleveland Cavaliers at 8 p.m. ET Wednesday.

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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.

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