Zion Williamson not the only one buying into the New Orleans Pelicans

On July 3, Zion Williamson officially signed his rookie extension to remain with the New Orleans Pelicans for, at least, another four years. This is great news being that there were rumbles of dissatisfaction, and David Griffin labeling Zion’s negotiations as a challenge.

Nevertheless, they came to an agreement relatively quickly, but before that, Zion was the most active he’s ever been in the community. Hosting, along with his stepfather, anti-violence events, camps for the children, going to the Essence Fest, and even going to random basketball courts within in the city.

Zion Williamson not the only one buying into the New Orleans Pelicans

Yet, he’s not the only one. CJ McCollum instantly became an all time ambassador for the Pelicans when arrived. Becoming part of the Pelicans playoff push and speaking candidly about how he wanted to he a part of the organization. He even vocalized that he worked with Portland with getting him there because that’s where he wanted to be.

Brandon Ingram embodies everything that the organization stands for. His tenure with the Pelicans started off rocky. Three head coaches in three years, and also dealing with one he didn’t favor in Stan Van Gundy. However, when Willie Green was hired, we saw a new Brandon Ingram, physically and mentally. Despite his numbers dropping slightly, he had his best season in a Pelicans uniform. He showed his love to the organization under one of Jose Alvarado’s photos saying, “They didn’t believe in his.. Pelicans did.”

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Who would have thought that an undrafted rookie would become such a fan favorite? Well, it happened with Jose Alvarado tenfold. From the Jose chants to his epic playoff intensity, Jose has really embraced the love and hasn’t taken a day off since. In fact, he got a tattoo that reads “Don’t quit” with his jersey numbers (from college and the NBA) in Pelicans font.

It’s obvious why having a level of buy-in is important. It’s even better when it’s coming from your best players. After dealing with so many players not wanting to play for New Orleans, the Pelicans finally have the collective talent, mentality, and togetherness that they haven’t had in some time now. It’s the reason why they will potentially have their best season as a franchise.