Lonzo Ball, Chicago Bulls guard, made his long-awaited return to the NBA court on Wednesday night after nearly three years. He was last seen playing in a regular-season game on January 14, 2022, until a left knee injury put him out of action for more than 1,000 days. After three surgeries, there were doubts among many about Ball’s future in playing. However, following an extensive rehabilitation period, Ball returned to play his first game of the season against the New Orleans Pelicans.
First Game Back
Lonzo Ball entered the game at 6:14 remaining in the first quarter, subbing in for Josh Giddey. Limited by a minutes restriction, he was on the court for 14 minutes and managed to score five points, dish out four assists, and grab two rebounds. “My time on the court is restricted, so I’m trying to be as assertive as I can,” Ball said. Also stressing his goal of providing energy as a bench player.
Flashes of the Old Lonzo
Ball’s comeback demonstrated flashes of his pre-injury performance. He made his initial basket and grabbed a rebound in the first moments. Despite the Bulls’ 123-111 loss, Ball’s performance offered optimism for his future. During the preseason, he demonstrated his passing and outside shooting abilities were intact by scoring 10 and 11 points in two games.
Looking Forward
Prior to his knee problems, Ball was having his most successful NBA season in 2021-22, with averages of 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists. Also a career-best 42.3% three-point shooting. Having returned to the basketball court, Ball’s journey has come full circle. “I had a goal of returning to the court,” he mentioned. Now he is also prepared to continue progressing from this point.
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