Rape allegations made against New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson in a bombshell lawsuit will not affect the team's plans on his future, according to newly hired executive vice president of basketball operations Joe Dumars.

New Orleans Pelicans leadership has indicated they are planning to stick with Zion Williamson as the face of the franchise going forward.

Newly hired New Orleans Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations Joe Dumars told The Times-Picayune the franchise will continue to build around Zion Williamson as its star player, settling speculation that Williamson could be either a trade candidate or could get cut outright amid new legal issues.