Zion Williamson showcased his dominance with 28 points, including a breathtaking alley-oop dunk that electrified the Barclays Center crowd, propelling the New Orleans Pelicans to a commanding 104-91 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night.
Joining Williamson in the scoring effort were CJ McCollum with 16 points, Larry Nance Jr. with 13 points and 10 rebounds, and Brandon Ingram and Herb Jones, who each contributed 11 points. The Pelicans’ balanced attack fueled their third consecutive win and seventh in eight games as they embarked on a four-game road trip.
With this victory, New Orleans solidified its position as the fifth seed in the Western Conference. “I think it says we’re watching film and adjusting as we get further in the season,” Nance remarked, highlighting the team’s evolving adaptability.
The win also marked New Orleans’ second consecutive winning season, a feat not achieved since 2009 when the franchise was known as the Hornets.
Head coach Willie Green emphasized the organization’s commitment to building a sustainable winning culture, attributing their success to a foundation of high-character individuals who bring energy and dedication to the team.
Cam Thomas led the Nets with 25 points, supported by Mikal Bridges with 15, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Pelicans’ strong performance. New Orleans dominated the game, shooting 50.6% from the field while stifling Brooklyn to just 36.9% shooting.
The Pelicans surged ahead with a commanding 20-4 run in the second quarter, establishing a substantial 47-25 lead. Although the Nets mounted a comeback effort with an 11-4 run to start the third quarter, New Orleans maintained control, extending their advantage to 85-69 by the end of the period.
In the fourth quarter, Williamson sealed the victory with a sequence of four consecutive points, punctuated by his emphatic two-handed slam off a steal from Naji Marshall. Williamson credited Marshall for his pinpoint pass, expressing his anticipation as he soared to complete the electrifying play.
“When he got the steal, I said, ‘Oh he is throwing it,'” Williamson recounted. “He threw a good pass, went and got it.”
