The organization, which runs a zoo and aquarium in Louisiana, named a penguin after Williamson following the teenager’s generous vow to cover the salaries of all Smoothie King Center staff over the next 30 days.
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Williamson’s pledge came after the NBA season was called to a halt amid the coronavirus pandemic; the first overall pick in the 2019 draft alleviated some of the financial pressure on staff at the Pelicans’ home court.
In light of that act of kindness, there is now a penguin called Zion who might one day meet the real deal. The Audubon Nature Institute invited the basketball prodigy and his younger brother, Noah, to come and see the critter.
“Hey @Zionwilliamson and @PelicansNBA, meet Zion! During these challenging times, you’ve embraced the community with a truly remarkable act of generosity,” a tweet read.
