Zion feels love for New Orleans: 'This is home for me'

Zion Williamson wants to stay in New Orleans.

The forward reiterated his desire to stay with the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday at the team's annual event for ticket holders, telling those in attendance that the city is his home.

"I love New Orleans," Williamson said. "I don't know where that narrative comes from that I don't want to be here. This is home. I say it every year. ... This is home for me."

Williamson added: "The hamstring was a major setback but I feel great now, playing the game I love."

Williamson missed 27 consecutive games due to a hamstring strain. Since his return on Jan. 7, he's missed three more due to rest, suspension for being late for a team flight, and reconditioning.

The No. 1 pick in the 2019 draft has played only 194 games over six seasons.

Williamson is averaging a career-low 21.9 points this season, along with 8.2 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.2 blocks. The 24-year-old is also shooting his worst percentage from the field.

The Pelicans are 14th in the Western Conference with a 11-32 record. They host the Utah Jazz on Monday.