"I had no business being in front of him" - Lonzo Ball recalls being floored by LeBron James detonating during Lakers practice
Lonzo Ball was entering his second season in the NBA when the LA Lakers acquired LeBron James. After failing to make the playoffs in the previous five seasons, James’ arrival meant that the Lakers were in win-now mode. The development of Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Alex Caruso, Brandon Ingram and Julius Randle had to be fast-tracked to help “King James” contend for a championship.
In James’ first season in Hollywood, the veterans on the team were JaVale McGee, Lance Stephenson, Michael Beasley, Rajon Rondo and Tyson Chandler. He knew he had to set the tone for the youngsters to get them up to speed.
Lonzo Ball had this to say about one practice where LeBron James made a case as still arguably the best player in the NBA:
“I’ve never seen an individual do that type on a basketball court. Basically, Bron [James] dominated the whole practice once he turned it on. Going through the middle windmilling like in half-court, going baseline tomahawk, half-court 3s.
"We was playing the 21, he had 21 and we had 7. That was the first time I was like, ‘Damn, that’s crazy.’ I had no business being in front of him right now.”
James’ work ethic, focus and drive are legendary. Over the years, teammates have raved about his relentlessness to get better. There is a reason why he has achieved his status in basketball. Ball was introduced to that greatness in his first season with the former Cleveland Cavaliers franchise cornerstone.
Lonzo Ball only played one season with LeBron James, though. The LA Lakers traded Ball along with Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart and three first-round picks to the New Orleans Pelicans for Anthony Davis in 2019.
Years after that practice, Ball had no trouble remembering what impressed him the most during his stay with the Lakers.
Lonzo Ball might still have a chance to play against LeBron James
Lonzo Ball has not played basketball since January 2022. He underwent three surgeries on his left knee, including a cartilage transplant procedure. No player has ever returned to play in the NBA after undergoing such a process.
Ball opted into his $21.4 million contract and is reportedly looking to make a comeback next season. The Chicago Tribune said in March that the point guard has already started “sprinting, cutting and jumping.”
Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan told reporters that Lonzo Ball “looks good moving." The former Laker is expected to start basketball activities this summer. Ball might eventually get a chance to be on the same floor as LeBron James.
“King James” will be playing in his 22nd season and is already the oldest player in the NBA. If Ball is not fully fit, he might have the same reaction years ago when he sees the four-time champ on the court next season.