LeBron James Offers Advice to Zion Williamson After Lakers-Pelicans Game

The Lakers star was caught on camera giving the Pelicans forward some strong words of encouragement.

Mar. 4, 2026 at 1:25pm

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After the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 110-101, a postgame moment between LeBron James and Zion Williamson caught attention online. Footage shows LeBron shaking hands and hugging Zion, with audio capturing him telling the younger star, "F*** all that bulls***," potentially in reference to previous criticisms Williamson has faced from ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith.

Why it matters

The interaction between the two NBA stars highlights the ongoing dialogue around Zion Williamson's career and the scrutiny he has faced, particularly from media figures like Stephen A. Smith. LeBron's remarks seem to be in defense of Williamson, as the two superstars navigate the pressures of the league.

The details

In the Lakers' 110-101 victory over the Pelicans, LeBron James scored 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 24 points, 4 rebounds, and a steal. After the game, a video clip surfaced showing LeBron shaking hands and hugging Zion, with audio capturing LeBron telling him, "F*** all that bulls***," potentially in reference to previous criticisms Williamson has faced from ESPN's Stephen A. Smith.

  • The Lakers defeated the Pelicans on Tuesday, March 4, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A 21-time NBA All-Star and four-time NBA champion, LeBron James is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Zion Williamson

A former first overall draft pick, Zion Williamson is a rising star in the NBA who plays for the New Orleans Pelicans. He has faced criticism in the past about his weight and injury history.

Stephen A. Smith

A prominent sports media personality, Stephen A. Smith is known for his outspoken commentary on ESPN's "First Take" program. He has previously made controversial remarks about Zion Williamson's weight and work ethic.

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What they’re saying

“F*** all that bulls***”

— LeBron James

“You got people that are alcoholics, you got people that are drug addicts, and stuff like that. What was Zion's problem? Food! Food addict!”

— Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Personality

“There was a lot of criticism on my weight, my care for the game...I'm in Portland rehabbing, not knowing if my foot is going to heal. It was frustrating.”

— Zion Williamson

What’s next

The interaction between LeBron James and Zion Williamson has sparked further discussion about the media scrutiny Williamson has faced and the support he is receiving from fellow NBA stars.

The takeaway

LeBron James' strong words to Zion Williamson highlight the ongoing challenges young NBA players face in dealing with criticism and pressure, and the importance of veteran leaders providing guidance and support to help them navigate the demands of the league.