Bulls guard Lonzo Ball returns to the NBA after nearly three years
Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball hadn’t stepped onto the court for a regular-season NBA game since January 14, 2022, until Wednesday night.
For almost three years, Ball faced challenges from a serious left knee injury that led to three surgical procedures, raising concerns about whether he would return to playing professionally.
After enduring extensive rehabilitation and grappling with uncertainties regarding his basketball career, Ball marked his return in a regular-season NBA game over 1,000 days later on Wednesday evening.
He made his season debut against the New Orleans Pelicans, entering the game with 6:14 remaining in the first quarter. Under a minutes restriction of around 16 per game, Ball substituted for Josh Giddey. He played for 3 minutes and 16 seconds before being taken out for Talen Horton-Tucker with 2:58 left in the first quarter.
Ball successfully made his opening shot and recorded a turnover along with a rebound during his initial minutes on the floor. He concluded the game with five points, four assists, and two rebounds in 14 minutes as the Bulls lost to the Pelicans 123-111.
“I know my time is limited, so I’m trying to play as aggressively as I can,” Ball expressed to reporters. “I’m bringing a lot of energy and looking to be a spark off the bench.”
In two preseason games, Ball showcased his skills by scoring 10 points in the first game and 11 points alongside three rebounds and three assists in the second. He hit a corner 3-pointer and executed a perfect bounce pass to Zach LaVine for a layup, reminding fans of the talented player he was prior to his injuries.
“I aimed to get back on the court,” Ball shared with reporters last week. “I was aware it was a lengthy journey and a tough process. But all the effort paid off because this is what I anticipated. I’m just pleased it’s finally happening, and I can enjoy playing the game I love.”
Before his knee issues, Ball had been enjoying one of his best seasons in 2021-22, averaging 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.8 steals, while also achieving a career-high shooting percentage of 42.3% from beyond the arc.
