Pelicans Exec Supports Zion Williamson Amid Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Zion Williamson, the New Orleans Pelicans star forward, is facing serious rape and abuse allegations in a civil lawsuit filed by a woman identified as Jane Doe, claiming abuse from 2020 to 2023. Despite these allegations, Pelicans executives, including Executive Vice President Joe Dumars, have expressed continued support for Williamson, emphasizing their intent to build the team around him while avoiding commentary on his legal issues. Pelicans owner Gayle Benson has publicly downplayed the impact of the lawsuit, highlighting that lawsuits can be filed for various reasons and maintaining a stance of presumed innocence for Williamson. The Pelicans are reportedly open to trading any player, including Williamson, due to concerns about his injury history and off-court issues, though his talent remains undeniable when healthy. Williamson's legal team denies the allegations, calling them false and financially motivated, and plans to file counterclaims for defamation. While the case proceeds, Williamson has not publicly commented, leaving his future with the Pelicans uncertain amid ongoing trade rumors and the approaching offseason.