Stephen A. Smith Goes Attacks Zion Williamson’s Weight Amid Speculation He’s Struggling to Stay in Shape: Word Is ‘He’ll Eat the Table’

Stephen A. Smith levied a damning accusation against New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson amid growing speculation he’s struggling with his conditioning.

During the Pelicans in-season tournament game against the Los Angeles Lakers, many viewers took note of the fact that Williamson appeared sluggish moving around the court. The 23-year-old also sported a noticeable gut.

Zion Williamson is matched up with Lebron James here. pic.twitter.com/PL2YavGHiC

— Pro Pels Talk (@ProPelsTalk) December 8, 2023

Zion Williamson reportedly ‘doesn’t listen’ to Pelicans’ requests regarding his physical conditioning. 😶 pic.twitter.com/uzsfAYWZJ1

— theScore (@theScore) December 9, 2023

While Zion’s weight has been an issue since his arrival in the NBA, talk of the subject intensified after the game against the Lakers. What made his physique even more noticeable was the fact that he was matched up against superstar LeBron James, who famously spends millions of dollars on nutrition and conditioning to keep himself in the best shape possible. Although James is 15 years older, he was much quicker and more explosive than the young star when they played one another.

On Monday’s episode of First Take, Smith called Williamson out.

“Have you no shame?” Smith said. “He’s more than 15 years younger than LeBron James. LeBron James is in his 21st season. Forget the talent because we know Zion Williamson is a big-time talent. The conditioning. I saw the brother go to the free throw line (and) it looked like he had a belly. He looked like he had a belly. It is shameful.”

Smith then claimed he was told Williamson’s eating habits have been well-known in New Orleans.

“You got chefs in New Orleans who love him,” Smith said. “They’re looking for him. Every chef there wants to meet him because they know he’ll show up to their restaurant. The word out on Zion Williamson is that ‘he’ll eat the table.’ I’m quoting. ‘He’ll eat the table.’

“What in the hell is going on with Zion Williamson? If Zion Williamson is healthy, conditioned, not missing 63% of his games like he has thus far in his career, New Orleans got a chance, Shannon (Sharpe), to be in a conference championship game. Without him, they’re going home in the first round. Have you no pride? Have you no discipline? Have you no focus? Get your stuff together, young man. Get your stuff together. You are too great to be walking around looking as rotund as you’re looking! Get it together!”

Watch above via ESPN