The New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) has not been cleared to play yet. Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports

Zion Williamson posts dunk video following reports he would not play this season

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 3/23/22

Looks like Zion Williamson has some explaining to do.

The New Orleans Pelicans forward has not been cleared to play yet as he continues to rehab his fractured right foot and, according to reports over the weekend, is expected to miss the rest of the season.

Although his rehab has apparently taken a turn, as was revealed in a video posted to his Instagram story on Tuesday night that showed Williamson going for a full dunk at the Pelicans practice facility.

ZION BACK IN THE GYM pic.twitter.com/OwmKpBIvlj
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 23, 2022

Not surprisingly, the video quickly made the rounds and set the internet on fire. Williamson has kept a particularly low profile during his never-ending rehab stint. During one practice on March 5 that the media was able to attend, the 2019 first-overall pick was spotted doing limited shooting drills under supervision from his trainers -- certainly not doing any running or fancy dunking.

The Pelicans have not yet issued a public statement regarding the video.

Williamson has missed the entire season thus far, with the team announcing on media back in September that he has sustained the fracture. Although the initial plan was for him to be ready to start the regular season, he suffered multiple setbacks with his rehabilitation.

The towering forward has played just 85 games over three NBA seasons, missing significant time along the way because of an array of injuries. He played just 24 games his rookie season after missing his first NBA regular-season start due to a right meniscus tear.

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