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Jordan: Zion's passion for basketball is 'great for the league'

Chris Graythen / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Michael Jordan liked what he saw from Zion Williamson in the New Orleans Pelicans rookie's regular-season debut Wednesday night.

Speaking at a news conference in France ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks' 116-103 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Friday, Jordan praised Williamson's passion and said he believes bigger things are ahead for the young phenom.

"What you saw the other night is a taste of what you're going to see going forward," Jordan said of Williamson's performance against the San Antonio Spurs, according to ESPN's Malika Andrews. "He's still got a lot to do, but I think his passion for the game is coming through the way that he plays. That's great for the league."

The Hornets owner also spoke about Williamson's endorsement deal with Jordan Brand, which is reportedly the most lucrative rookie shoe contract in NBA history.

"We were very fortunate that he chose us," Jordan said. "We look at every opportunity to expand him to the consumers and showcase his personality and his basketball skills. We can't play basketball for him, but we feel like he does present us an opportunity to showcase his talents. And that's what our job is going to be. It's a great partnership."

Through his first two games, Williamson is averaging 18.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while shooting 75% from the field.

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