LAS VEGAS — There are no NBA debuts this summer bigger than Zion Williamson's. People want to see the first overall pick and got to Friday night.
Nearly 18,000 people, a sell-out crowd, paid to see Zion at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas. Some people paid as much as $400 according to reports.
Williamson scored 11 points, missed two three-point shots in an up-and-down performance that was shorted by a knee injury. Zion didn't play after halftime listed as out with a left knee injury.
The Pelicans led the Knicks 80-74 before being postponed after another California earthquake shook the arena. A reported 6.9 earthquake postponed all action from the Thomas and Mack Center, which included a game that was to follow the Pelicans. Former LSU Tiger Kavell Bigby-WIlliams also made his professional debut in the game for New Orleans. Bigby-Williams recorded a double-double, scoring 12 points wile pulling down 10 boards.
Williams was one of two LSU Tigers making their summer league debuts Friday. Naz Reid scored 9 points in 14 minutes of play for the Minnesota TImberwolves Friday afternoon. Reid connected on two three-point attempts.
Saturday Tremont Water debuts for the Celtics when Boston plays the Sixers. Former Louisiana Ragin' Cajun star Jakeenan Gant will debut with the Indiana Pacers Saturday, as well, in a game against the Grizzlies. Also Saturday, former Lafayette Lion and Houston Cougar standout Corey Davis Jr. debuts with the Washington Wizards opener versus New Orleans. Zion Williams will not play Saturday, a decision made before the game Friday night.