Fitness level of NBA players often stirs up heated debates. And rightly so, as the league with its grueling schedule and high-intensity games demands peak physical condition from its athletes. In this regard, New Orleans Pelicans‘ forward Zion Williamson and his physical fitness have been generating heated debate since his entry into the league in 2019. The conversation recently took an interesting turn when a former three-time All-Star weighed in on the matter.
Known for not mincing words and delivering hard truths based on personal experiences from his playing days, Gilbert Arenas offered intriguing insights comparing Zion Williamson’s predicament to a billionaire superstar.?
Arenas draws parallels between Zion Williamson and LeBron James
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In an interview with Dan Patrick, Arenas candidly discussed the challenges that young NBA players face in maintaining their weight. He shared his own experiences, revealing how he gained 20 pounds during his first NBA season despite playing 42 minutes a game.
Arenas then turned the conversation towards Zion Williamson, expressing his concern about the young player’s weight.“We’re athletes. It was always a concern of mine with him when everyone was talking about 285,” he said. “He’s the beast and I’m like 285 at 19. That’s probably going to be a problem in the NBA because he hasn’t touched the NBA weight.”
Arenas pointed out that LeBron too had to make a conscious decision about his weight during his career. “LeBron was 285,” Arenas added. “Remember, we were doing comparisons of the first time he was in the Olympics? He had to make that conscious decision. If he wanted to be a longevity player, he had to dial it down.”Fan Take: Learn From LeBron
Many fans are hoping that Williamson will follow in LeBron’s footsteps and take control of his weight for the sake of his career longevity. Some of them lately hailed Williamson’s recent physical appearance. The transformation came amid the controversy surrounding his personal life.
via Getty
Aug. 12, 2012 – London, England, United Kingdom – Team USA basketball player LEBRON JAMES checks back into the gold medal basketball game against Spain during the 2012 London Summer Olympics. (Credit Image: ?? Mark Makela) (Photo by Mark Makela/Corbis via Getty Images)
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With fans still wondering and commenting on the NBA star’s comeback, the conversation around Zion Williamson’s weight and fitness is far from over. As the young player navigates his career in the NBA, he will undoubtedly face more scrutiny and comparisons.
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However, if Williamson can take a leaf from LeBron’s book and manage his weight effectively, he could well be on his way to a successful and long-lasting career in the NBA.
