Zion Williamson tattoo, explained: What to know about Pelicans star’s new anime-inspired ‘Naruto’ stomach ink

Zion Williamson’s stardom has been limited by injuries over his five NBA seasons and six years since being drafted first overall, but when healthy, he’s one of the most dominant paint forces in league history.

Williamson, a two-time All-Star, has averaged nearly 25 points per game in his young career thus far. At 24, he has plenty of time to continue his development while seeking to stay on the court.

As is the case with many young NBA stars, Williamson has indulged in some new body art, and fans have taken a particular interest in his most recent tattoo, which connects back to a well-known anime character.

Here’s what to know about Williamson’s new stomach ink. 

MORE: Why some of the NBA’s biggest stars are obsessed with anime

Zion Williamson’s tattoo, explained

On Wednesday, pictures of Williamson’s fresh stomach tattoo were released on social media. Right in the middle of his abdomen, the Pelicans star got the circular seal of Naruto, a popular anime character.

Zion got a Naruto seal stomach tattoo. Thoughts? 👀

(h/t @inkednba, via inkbynova/IG) pic.twitter.com/HguXY0qZj7

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 27, 2025

According to Narutopedia, the four symbols seal Williamson got tatted is used “to seal a large enemy or an evil spirit into a target, such as an object or a human’s body.” The forward’s new ink was first shown off by Instagram account inkbynova, which is based in Louisiana. 

Williamson, averaging 24.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.7 assists so far this season, has fortunately remained healthy in recent weeks. He’s struggled with injuries throughout his career and already missed an extended period of New Orleans’ 2024-25 season, appearing in just 21 of the team’s 58 games so far.

His Naruto tattoo is just the latest sign of his appreciation for anime, as Williamson has spoken on his relationship with Naruto in the past and estimated that 80 percent of NBA players are into anime, per GQ.

Williamson’s new ink also comes at a time when he’s reportedly in the slimmest shape of his career. ESPN’s Michael C. Wright reported this week that despite Williamson being listed at 284 pounds by NBA.com, the forward is actually playing at 264 pounds, the lightest he has weighed since being drafted in 2019.