Zion Williamson responds to those who said he should have shut it down

Zion Williamson responded on Thursday to those who said he should have shut things down and just prepared for the NBA.

Williamson returned to action for the first time since he suffered a knee injury in the first minute against North Carolina on Feb. 20. He went 13/13 from the field, scoring 29 points with 14 rebounds to lead Duke to an 84-72 win over Syracuse in the quarterfinals of the ACC Tournament.

In his postgame interview with ESPN’s Allison Williams, Zion wanted to make clear why he returned to the Blue Devils.

“I love this game. I love my teammates. Some people thought I wasn’t going to return. They weren’t smart; I love playing with Duke. I love playing with my teammates, and it’s great to be back,” Williamson told Williams.

Zion Williamson "I love this game, I love my teammates, so the people who thought I wasn't going to return they weren't smart….I couldn't leave my boys hanging." pic.twitter.com/o3W75FCTPF

— gifdsports (@gifdsports) March 15, 2019

As for the people who said he should have shut it down and prepared for the NBA instead, Zion respects their opinion.

“They are entitled to their own opinion. I appreciate the input, but I couldn’t leave my boys hanging.”

He also said his knee felt “incredible.”

One of the loudest voices calling for him to shut it down was Scottie Pippen. Williamson rejected that advice back in January, even before his injury. Hearing someone who says he loves to play and wanted to be there for his teammates is refreshing. The guy has incredible character, is a wonderful leader, and on top of that, just so happens to be amazingly talented.