Lonzo Ball Makes NBA Return 1,000 Days After Knee Injury
By Preezy Brown,
10 hours ago
Lonzo Ball has returned to the NBA after recovering from a career-threatening knee injury that saw the point guard miss nearly three full seasons of playing time.
On Wednesday (Oct. 16), Ball suited up for the Chicago Bulls’ preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, marking a miraculous comeback after numerous knee surgeries and doubts that he would ever play in an NBA game again.
Limited to 15 minutes as part of a restriction as he eases himself back into game action, Ball was productive in his return, scoring 10 points on 4 of 6 shooting from the field.
Lonzo Ball #2 of the Chicago Bulls celebrates his three point shot in the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on December 02, 2021 in New York City. The Chicago Bulls defeated the New York Knicks 199-115. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.
Prior to the game, Ball spoke about the effect his injury has had on his playing style and approach to the game. “It’s not the same body I started off with,” Ball said after the Bulls’ shootaround. “But I think I can still be productive and effective on the court. That’s why I’m still trying to play.”
Ball was initially injured on Jan. 14, 2022 during a game against the Golden State Warriors, which the Bulls lost 138-86 in blowout fashion. The former No. 2 overall draft pick underwent three separate arthroscopic procedures on his left knee in the time since, including a rare double cartilage transplant in March 2023.
Ball touched on the struggles surrounding his lengthy recovery process, expressing his gratitiude for the journey, which he feels is now “behind” him.
Lonzo Ball #2 of the Chicago Bulls looks on against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at United Center on January 13, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.
“Long. Really long,” he said of his rehab. “But looking back on it, it went a lot faster than I thought. … Them telling me 18 more months recovery [after the third surgery], it sounds crazy in the moment, but now I’m here. It’s all behind me now.”
Ball credited his comeback to his unwavering faith in himself, as well as his trust in the medical staff that assisted him throughout the process.
“I think it’s the belief in myself — knowing what I was feeling, knowing that I was a good age to come back from it,” the 26-year-old said. “I’m just trusting in the doctors and people around me.”
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