Pelicans' Zion Williamson (foot) sustains another setback / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports Credit Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson has experienced another setback in his recovery from foot surgery, the team said Saturday.

The Pelicans said they will cut back Williamson's rehab efforts after tests revealed the bone in his right foot needs more time to heal. He underwent the procedure during the offseason.

"After experiencing persistent soreness in his right foot, Zion Williamson underwent medical imaging which showed a regression in the bone healing of his fifth metatarsal," the Pelicans said in a statement. "As a result, the volume and intensity of his training will be reduced for an extended period to help allow for further bone healing. Additional updates will be provided as warranted."

It remains unclear when Williamson will return to play for the Pelicans.

New Orleans announced in late November that Williamson, 21, was medically cleared to return to fully participate in practices. But on Dec. 2, Williamson experienced pain in the foot and was shut down.

The Pelicans have struggled without him and are 8-20 heading into Sunday's road game against the San Antonio Spurs.

Since becoming the top overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft after one attention-grabbing college season at Duke, Williamson has played in just 85 games in his three-year career. He has missed 87 games.

Williamson has career averages of 25.7 points and 7.0 rebounds for New Orleans, with an All-Star selection in 2020-21. He played in just 24 games as a rookie due to a torn meniscus in his right knee.

--Field Level Media

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