After nearly three years away from the NBA due to a severe knee injury, Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball made his highly anticipated return during a preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. It marked the end of a grueling recovery process, and Ball didn’t disappoint, showcasing his skills once again. The return of Lonzo Ball has drawn praise from fans and NBA peers alike, including none other than LeBron James.
LeBron’s Support for Lonzo’s Comeback
LeBron James, who played alongside Lonzo Ball during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, took to Instagram to celebrate Ball’s return. He shared a heartfelt message on his story, writing, “So damn proud of you man!!” along with emojis showing his admiration for the Bulls star’s perseverance. The support from LeBron, who has been through his share of ups and downs in the league, resonates deeply, especially considering their shared history.
A Long Road to Recovery
Lonzo Ball’s injury, which sidelined him since January 2022, required multiple surgeries and an extensive 1006-day recovery period. His return to the court is nothing short of remarkable. Ball himself acknowledged how tough the journey was, mentioning how overwhelming it was to hear he needed 18 more months to recover after his third surgery. Despite the challenges, his determination has brought him back to the Bulls’ lineup, reminding fans why he was such a highly touted prospect.
LeBron and Lonzo’s Lakers Connection
Ball began his NBA journey with the Lakers as the second overall pick in the 2017 draft. The following year, LeBron James joined the team, and the two quickly formed a professional bond. However, their time together was short-lived as Ball was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the deal that brought Anthony Davis to the Lakers. Reflecting on the trade, Ball himself admitted that he understood the decision, humorously noting, “I would have traded myself for Anthony Davis.”
Lonzo’s resilience and return to the NBA spotlight have been inspirational, and with support from stars like LeBron, it’s clear that his journey back will continue to be celebrated across the league.
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