Zion Williamson has faced significant criticism this NBA season, but he recently revealed an unexpected truth regarding a decision made by the New Orleans Pelicans that has impacted his role on the team.

Pelicans head coach Willie Green said that Williamson is dealing with a stomach illness and won't play Friday against the Celtics, Erin Summers of the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network reports.

Zion Williamson sat out the New Orleans Pelicans' game against the Boston Celtics on Friday night because of a stomach illness. Williamson has missed 36 of the Pelicans’ 49 games this season. He averaged 24.

Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) dribbles the bll against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images / John E.

Zion Williamson (non COVID-illness) is OUT tonight against the Celtics.Source: Twitter @SeanGrandePBP What’s the buzz on Twitter? Kurt Helin @basketballtalk Zion Williamson says

Oft-injured New Orleans Pelicans All-Star power forward Zion Williamson has landed on yet another injury report, this time ahead of a Friday meeting with the reigning champion Boston Celtics. That said,

When the teams met, Pelicans forward Zion Williamson was just returning from a hamstring injury. Williamson scored 16 points on 5/15 shooting from the field in that game, his lowest point output since his injury.