“My mom sacrificed a lot for me… She put her dreams aside for mine.” said Zion Williamson as he fought back tears on one fine 2019 night when his NBA dream became reality. Fast forward to this Thursday, Williamson achieved his first NBA triple-double, leading the New Orleans Pelicans to a 124-116 victory over the Phoenix Suns. He recorded 27 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds, demonstrating his all-around performance in the paint.

But behind his high-flying dunks and brute strength is a mother who envisioned greatness before the world knew his name. The New Orleans Pelicans’ star forward hails from a family with a rich athletic background. He was born to parents Sharonda Sampson and Lateef Williamson on 6 July 2000. Although his parents separated when he was only 5, his mother, Sharonda, took upon the task of making a star out of her son. Zion, despite his unstoppable force on the court, regards his mother as the toughest. “My mom to this day is the hardest coach I’ve ever had,” he admitted in an interview published on the NBA’s Twitter account. By now, you want to know more about this Iron Woman who created Zanos. So, keep scrolling; below is all you need to know about the hooper’s parentage. 

Who is Zion Williamson’s mother, Sharonda Sampson? What does she do for a living?

Sharonda’s passion for sports began in her youth. She attended Livingstone College, where she excelled as a track and field athlete. She welcomed Zion with former football defensive lineman Lateef Williamson with whom she was initially married. After their separation, she married Lee Anderson, a former Clemson University basketball player.

Sharonda transitioned from her collegiate track years to become a middle school health and physical education instructor. Throughout it all, she remained her son’s full-time basketball coach. Zion often credits his mother’s hard training to be the reason for his success.

“There were times when my stepdad would look at me and say ‘you had a good game’ and my mom would be like ‘I don’t know what you’re talking about, you had 2 or 3 turnovers,” Zion had once stated reflecting on his training. After Zion sprained his knee in the Duke-North Carolina game, she was there comforting her son. “She put her arms around me and said, ‘It’s OK, you’ll be back before you know it,” Williamson remembered.

Zion grew up watching his mother juggle responsibilities as a single parent, all while ensuring he stayed on track. When the NBA shut down for over three months, Zion pledged to pay the salaries of the hourly workers at the Pelicans’ home arena, the Smoothie King Center, for 30 days to help them get back on their feet.

Who is Zion Williamson’s father, Lateef? Was he an NBA player?

Zion’s biological father, Lateef Williamson, never played in the NBA, but his athletic background was undeniable. Lateef was once a promising football player. A towering defensive end with raw power, he played at North Carolina State before transferring to Livingstone College. But post his divorce from Sharonda, his presence in Zion’s life was brief.

Stepping into the father figure role was Lee Anderson, who is a former Clemson University basketball player. “Lee was always there, guiding me to become the player I am today,” Zion reflected on his stepfather’s role. Unlike Lee Anderson, who remained an active mentor in Zion’s career, Lateef’s influence faded as the years passed.

However, he still acknowledged the brief role Lateef played in his journey. “My biological father was there at the beginning, and I respect that, everyone plays a part in shaping who you become.” Zion shared in an interview with Sports Illustrated.

What nationality are Zion Williamson’s parents?

Sharonda Sampson and Lateef Williamson are both American nationals but have African-American ethnicities. Zion’s stepfather, Lee Anderson, is also African-American in ethnicity.

Sharonda and Lateef came with deep roots in South Carolina where Zion grew up in Spartanburg. The city, known for its blue-collar work ethic, is reflected in Zion’s relentless approach to the game. Sharonda often emphasized the importance of staying connected to one’s roots. “Spartanburg is home, and no matter how far Zion goes, this place will always be a part of him,” she shared in an interview with ESPN.

Following his first career triple-double, Zion Williamson reflected on his performance, stating, “These nights are definitely big for the confidence and the reminder of who I am.” As he continues to evolve, Zion remains focused on his growth and the team’s success. His recent performances underscore his potential to become one of the league’s premier players. His star-studded performance may mark the beginning of a legacy, but the values passed down from his family will undoubtedly guide him toward even greater heights.