ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith strongly defended his comments about Zion Williamson’s struggles with food addiction after the New Orleans Pelicans mocked his reports. The Pelicans dismissed Smith’s claims on their social media, telling him to “stick to solitaire” following Williamson’s recent remarks about how painful it was to hear reports concerning his weight issues during a foot injury.
Smith backed his story, insisting that his information came from trusted sources inside the Pelicans organization as well as from Williamson’s close associates, according to ESPN’s First Take.
Nothing was made up. The information that emanated about Zion Williamson, yeah, it came from inside the organization. It came from people even closer than that to Zion Williamson. I’m a leave it at that,
Smith said.
People that called up and encouraged us to get his a** because of the things he was doing. You got people that are alcoholics, you got people that are drug addicts, and stuff like that. What was Zion’s problem? Food! Food addict!
Smith elaborated that Williamson’s fluctuating weight was widely known, especially among chefs in New Orleans, who were reportedly familiar with his eating habits.
Anybody that cooked knew about Zion Williamson, and he knew them. And they were on a first-name basis because that brother ate a lot,
Smith shared.
You even had rumors, and literally I’m here thinking it was a joke, and somebody told me to go on air and point out how he got busted hiding food under his bed. This was the kind of stuff that was happening.
Smith emphasized that the report was serious and not exaggerated, detailing how addiction issues come in various forms and, in Williamson’s case, it manifested as a food addiction.
Lonzo Ball Reflects on Time with Zion Williamson on and off the Court
While the controversy surrounds Williamson off the court, his former teammate Lonzo Ball recently spoke fondly of their time playing together for the New Orleans Pelicans between 2019 and 2021. Ball described Williamson as one of the most pleasurable teammates he has ever had, particularly praising his athleticism and chemistry on the court.
To hoop with? I would probably say, s**t, low key probably Zion. Just because I could throw him the lob anywhere, and if I just give it to him in the pocket, just tally my assist. He’s laying that s**t every time,
Ball said.
Off the court, that’s hard. [But] low-key respect Deebo the most. If I had to pick like a big brother in the league, I’d say him.
Ball’s comments show the contrast between Williamson’s impressive talent and the personal challenges he faces, highlighting the complex nature of the athlete both on and off the floor.
Implications of the Food Addiction Allegations on Zion Williamson’s Career
The ongoing discussion about Zion Williamson’s reported food addiction sheds light on the pressures and difficulties high-profile athletes may endure, especially when struggling with physical health and personal habits. Stephen A. Smith’s persistence in revealing these details, despite pushback from the Pelicans and fans, suggests the issue remains a point of concern within the organization.
Addressing such struggles publicly could impact Williamson’s reputation and how the Pelicans manage his role moving forward. Understanding the challenges behind his weight issues may prompt deeper conversations on athlete wellness and support systems within professional teams.
As this debate continues, the coming months will likely reveal whether Williamson and the Pelicans take new measures to help him overcome these difficulties and stabilize his career performance. The revelations are significant in framing discussions about player health beyond the court.
"You got people that are alcoholics, you got people that are drug addicts and stuff like that. What was Zion's problem? Food! Food addict!"
Stephen A. Smith on Zion Williamson's comments about his weight.
(via @FirstTake)
pic.twitter.com/5SiH7oKJqD https://t.co/TCBp4Zw5SF— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 4, 2026
