ESPN Slammed For Fat-shaming Zion Williamson During His NBA Debut

The NBA rulebook does not really specify a player’s weight so it doesn’t matter as long as the player brings in the numbers for the team. Apparently, ESPN has a few ideas of its own and was highlighting Zion Williamson’s weight on his NBA debut.

On Wednesday, Zion Williamson finally made his much-awaited NBA debut playing for New Orleans Pelicans. Four minutes into the game, however, the six-foot, six-inch forward sat down who quickly became the focus of ESPN commentators not because of how he played the game but because of his weight, according to the New York Post.

“Weight: 285 lbs (3rd-heaviest player in NBA this season),” a graphic on the screen’s sideline said when the camera swiveled to Williamson.

ESPN analysts then mentioned that Williamson looked heavier than they last saw him. They likewise commented that the forward probably needs to trim down after his absence last year that lasted for 44 games.

The analysts likewise expressed disbelief that Williamson gained eight pounds of muscle in a week’s time after resuming workouts. In fact, they questioned if the 285-pound weight recorded for the player is accurate. Jackson added that he would have chosen the No. 2 pick, Ja Morant, over Williamson.

However, fans were not too pleased with the analysts’ comments. Many were appalled that the commentators seem to be fat-shaming Williamson on live TV.

“Shame on you @espn @ESPNNBA for body-shaming Zion on his debut!! Of all the statistics you choose to talk about his weight … SAD!!! @Zionwilliamson #nba,” Twitter user @realcabocorso commented. “OH MY GOD, THEY ARE FAT SHAMING ZION ON ESPN,” @BrandonWagemann, another user of the playform, is of the same opinion.

A fan even suggested that ESPN should not let Jackson cover these events. “Can we take outrage at Mark Jackson for fat-shaming just so ESPN takes him off the air,” Twitter @Mikearooonie commented.

Another user hinted that it’s probably bad taste to call someone fat just a few minutes into their debut game. “It would be great if announcers didn’t feel the need to call Zion fat 3 minutes into his career,” Sam Vecenie tweeted. “Would make for a much better product, IMO.”