Lonzo Ball overwhelmed with emotions after playing 1st game in 1,007 days: "Felt a lot better playing than watching"
Lonzo Ball suited up for the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The point guard had not played in 1,007 days before the preseason game against the Timberwolves to address an oft-injured left knee. After the Bulls’ scrimmage on Tuesday, “Zo” told reporters he was “full of joy” to return to the NBA.
In the postgame conference following the Bulls’ 125-123 win against the Timberwolves, Ball was asked how he felt during the game. The LA Lakers’ No. 2 pick in the 2017 NBA draft responded:
“Felt a lot better playing than watching. I’ll say that much. I can’t even really put into words how I felt out there. I was just blessed [and] happy to be out there, man. All the support around me was great all night. Man, it was definitely a moment I’ll never forget.”
The Chicago Bulls decided to shut down Lonzo Ball after playing 24 minutes against the Golden State Warriors on Jan. 14, 2022. It took three arthroscopic procedures on his left knee, including a double cartilage transplant to fix his nagging injury. Many thought he wouldn’t be able to play again in the NBA.
The point guard was eventually given clearance to engage in 5-on-5 scrimmages in August. Ball’s surgically repaired left knee cooperated, paving the way for his return on Wednesday.
Chicago Bulls players award Lonzo Ball the game ball
Inside the Chicago Bulls' locker room after the game, the players had something special for Lonzo Ball. Emerging star Coby White had this to say in front of the team:
“Today was going to be a special day regardless of the outcome. Zo [is] back, man. It’s a blessing to be part of his journey. You know, a lot of us being here through it all, seeing the highs and lows. This was a hell of a night for him. Here is the game ball brother.”
“Zo” tapped at his chest and clapped, too overwhelmed to say anything.
Zach LaVine took a turn to say something as well:
“I respect you more than anything bro because of what you’ve been through. We love you [and] we care for you. I’m glad to see you back.”
The entire team added their signatures on Lonzo Ball’s jersey and presented it to him after LaVine’s speech. They ended the moment by forming a huddle and shouting “Family” to cap the night.
The Bulls end their preseason against the Cleveland Cavaliers at United Center in Chicago on Friday.