Zion Williamson Wants To Put on a Show in Pelicans’ Home Opener

The New Orleans Pelicans star wants to show out for his home crowd on Friday.

Pelicans' Zion Williamson (1) prepares to shoot the ball during the home opener against the New Orleans Pelicans at FedExForum on October 22, 2025. | Chris Day/The Commercial Appeal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The New Orleans Pelicans opened their 2025-26 season against the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night, suffering a 128-122 loss. Of course, this is not an ideal way to start the new season, but the Pelicans have plenty to look forward to for the rest of their campaign.

With a new-look lineup, there were destined to be some growing pains, but the Pelicans did not play as badly as many likely expected on Wednesday night. Star forward Zion Williamson led the way with 27 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and five steals on 10-21 shooting from the field. Of course, the Pelicans need the best version of Williamson this season, and he showed a glimpse of what's in store.

Zion looking forward to home opener

Oct 22, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) and New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) talk during the fourth quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images | Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Of course, starting the season with a loss is disappointing for Williamson and the Pelicans, but on Friday, they have a chance to make a statement in front of their home crowd. The Pelicans are set to host the San Antonio Spurs, who are coming off an impressive win over the Dallas Mavericks, and Williamson is looking forward to it.

"Always competing against great players, as a competitor, is dope," Williamson said about facing Victor Wembanyama, "but I definitely look forward to playing at the crib. That's the city. I hope the city comes out and brings the energy. We're looking to put on a show and have fun."

"I definitely look forward to playing at the Crib. That's the City. I hope the City comes out and brings the energy. We're looking to put on a show"

-- Zion Williamson on Friday's Home Opener against the Spurs pic.twitter.com/c2doWj1dyo

— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) October 23, 2025

In the 2024-25 season, the Pelicans were 5-7 at home when Zion Williamson was on the court, but just 14-27 overall while playing at the Smoothie King Center. Of course, they will need to improve that mark this season to get back near the Western Conference playoff picture, and it all starts with a healthy and in-shape Williamson.

If Williamson can continue to play like he did on Wednesday, at home or on the road, then the Pelicans will be in a great position to stay competitive throughout the season. Of course, Friday's matchup with Wembanyama and the Spurs gives Williamson and company a great opportunity to make a statement in front of the New Orleans crowd, and hopefully give them a momentum boost moving forward.

The Pelicans and Spurs will face off in New Orleans on Friday at 8:00 p.m. ET, and like Zion Williamson said, he is hoping to see the city show up and show their support for the 2025-26 home opener.