NBA insider drops major Lonzo Ball update from Bulls' training camp as star guard eyes "unprecedented comeback"
Lonzo Ball received a meniscus transplant in 2023 to solve his nagging left knee injury. Ball had already undergone two surgeries, which resulted in minimal improvements, before opting for the procedure, which Bulls coach Billy Donovan called the point guard's “best chance” to resume his NBA career.
In August, Ball participated in his first 5-on-5 scrimmage without setbacks. Despite the good news, the No. 2 pick from the 2017 NBA draft surprised many when he showed up for the Chicago Bulls training camp. His participation in scrimmages and drills shared by the Bulls on social media promptly generated buzz.
As the regular season approaches, NBA insider Evan Sidery reported that Ball's progress is substantial enough that the Bulls are planning to use him this season.
“Lonzo Ball continues to respond well to an increasing workload as he prepares for his unprecedented comeback," Sidery said.
“Ball is in line to play a key role in the Bulls’ second unit."
This offseason, the Bulls acquired Josh Giddey from the OKC Thunder for Alex Caruso. Giddey is expected to be the starting point guard ahead of Ball.
Lonzo last played in an NBA game in early January 2022 against the Golden State Warriors. He had 15 points, three assists and two rebounds in 24 minutes.
LaMelo Ball calls Lonzo Ball’s recovery “a blessing”
When LaMelo Ball entered the NBA in 2020, he told reporters that playing against his older brother, Lonzo Ball, was something he looked forward to. The first meeting between the brothers happened on Jan. 8, 2021.
LaMelo led his Charlotte Hornets to a 118-110 win over his brother's team at the time, the New Orleans Pelicans.
The older Ball has a 2-1 edge against his younger brother in head-to-head matchups. Their last meeting in an NBA game happened on Nov. 29, 2021, when Lonzo's Bulls pulled off a 133-119 win against LaMelo's Hornets.
On Sunday, LaMelo expressed his thoughts on Lonzo’s recovery and training camp participation:
“It’s a blessing for sure. God is amazing.”
If the Ball brothers remain healthy, they are set to face off for the first time in three years on New Year’s Eve.