Emmanuel Acho Reacts to Zion Williamson’s Physical Transformation Ahead of the 2025-26 NBA Season
Emmanuel Acho, the former NFL player turned analyst, reacted with surprise to Zion Williamson’s impressive physical transformation ahead of the upcoming NBA season. Like many fans, Acho was taken aback when Williamson showed up in great shape for the New Orleans Pelicans’ media day.
Concerns Over Williamson’s Fitness
Throughout his six-year NBA career, Zion Williamson’s fitness has often been a topic of concern among fans and analysts. The former No. 1 overall pick has struggled to stay healthy, most recently sustaining a hamstring injury that sidelined him for a significant portion of last season.
During a clip from his “SPEAKEASY” show, Acho mentioned that Williamson appeared to be taking Ozempic—a prescription medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes but also known for its weight-loss effects. Acho urged Williamson to focus not only on improving his physical condition but also on avoiding off-court distractions.
“I know Ozempic when I see it,” Acho said. “I don’t even need these glasses for it. I can spot Ozempic without this. Zion was supposed to be the next superstar of the NBA and it just hasn’t materialized. Number one, take care of your physical, Zion, but also take care of your mentals, bro. He’s had more drama off the court than he has on the court and we all want to see Zion shine.”
Career Recap and Last Season’s Performance
In five NBA seasons, Zion Williamson has never played more than 70 games in a single season. In the 2024-25 campaign, he appeared in just 30 games, averaging 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. His shooting efficiency remained strong, with a 56.7% field goal percentage and a 65.6% free-throw percentage.
Zion Williamson Opens Up About Offseason Training
On Tuesday, Williamson spoke to reporters about his offseason conditioning regimen, which was developed alongside Pelicans trainer Daniel Bove. Surprisingly, the program included football field workouts to improve his fitness.
“We came up with a plan from boxing to working out on the football field a lot to just different random workouts,” Williamson explained. “And during that timeframe last year, I really felt a shift in my body to where I would look at him and go, ‘Dude, it feels good to feel good.’ I haven’t felt like this since college, high school, just where I can walk into a gym and I feel good.”
Looking Ahead: New Orleans Pelicans and Saints
The Pelicans struggled last season, finishing with a disappointing 21-61 record. With Williamson’s renewed fitness and focus, the team is hopeful to show a different, more competitive face in the upcoming 2025-26 season.
Meanwhile, the city of New Orleans is eagerly awaiting better fortunes, as the NFL’s New Orleans Saints have gotten off to a tough start with an 0-3 record this year.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Zion Williamson can finally realize the superstar potential that was once so highly anticipated.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-i-know-ozempic-i-see-one-emmanuel-acho-makes-bold-claim-zion-williamson-s-offseason-weight-loss
