The Zion Williamson experience is still not treating the New Orleans Pelicans very well.
New Orleans opened up the 2026-27 season on Wednesday against the Indiana Pacers. The game went down to the wire at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, La., but the Pacers managed to hold on for the 123-120 victory.
The Pelicans star Williamson had the chance to tie the game at the end of the fourth quarter with a corner three after securing a loose-ball offensive rebound. But Williamson’s attempt hit nothing but … air. Here is the brutal video.
ZION WILLIAMSON AIR BALL FOR THE TIE https://t.co/iGkWqQHlCg
— wok (@wokdior) October 22, 2026
Williamson was promptly clowned over social media for the errant triple. Many users penned sarcastic posts about Williamson’s performance in the clutch.
Zion Williamson with a wide open look to send it to overtime! https://t.co/5TqIOQ9ARr
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) October 22, 2026
Zion Williamson with the game on the line https://t.co/gNYrcprSwt
— G2hJay (@Theoffseason6) October 22, 2026
ZION WILLIAMSON FOR THE TIE https://t.co/Q1U8eFKts9
— NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) October 22, 2026
Zion Williamson with the game on the line https://t.co/w8bsEYoeLj
— Slay’s Sports Store (@SlaySportsStore) October 22, 2026
The two-time All-Star Williamson did, in fairness, hit two three-pointers earlier on in the game. He appears to have focused on his three-point shot during the offseason after entering play this year with only 33 career three-pointers made (including just one last season).
But when the moment was the biggest during Wednesday’s game, Williamson came up the smallest. It could ultimately be a long season in New Orleans, especially given Williamson’s notorious struggles in the clutch.
