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No. 1 Overall 2019 NBA Draft Pick Zion Williamson Gets Emotional Talking About His Mom

The former Duke forward was asked about his mother’s sacrifice and said he wouldn’t be where he is without her.

It didn’t take long for Duke forward Zion Williamson to prove he’d be taken early in the NBA Draft.

Ever since he announced he’d enter the draft after one year in college, it was pretty evident he’d be the first pick overall and was one of the most hyped top players in the draft since LeBron James.

Still, becoming the top pick in the draft wasn’t a reality to Zion until the New Orleans Pelicans called his name last night during the 2019 NBA Draft.

After shaking hands with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and showcasing his Pelicans jersey in front of hundreds of camera flashes, Williamson walked off stage for his first official interview as an NBA player.

ESPN’s Maria Taylor caught up with Zion for an emotional interview.

“You have been waiting for this moment since you were 5,” she began her question to the 18-year-old. “How would you describe being the overall No. 1 pick in this draft?”

  • Zion’s response? “I don’t know what to say,” he said, beginning to get visibly emotional. “My mom sacrificed a lot for me. I wouldn’t be here without my mom. She did everything for me. I just want to thank her.”

    Taylor then followed up about the important role of Williamson’s mother in his development and upbringing. It had Zion choking up even more as his mother joined him during the interview.

    The special moment had social media tearing up. See some of what people had to say below.

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