When is Lonzo Ball Coming Back? What Happened to Lonzo Ball?
by Preethi S | Updated Mar 05, 2024
When is Lonzo Ball Coming Back?
The return of Lonzo Ball to the basketball court remains uncertain as he continues to recover from a knee injury that sidelined him during the middle of the 2021-22 NBA season. Initially, the expectation was for a shorter absence, but Lonzo faced multiple setbacks on his journey to recovery. His absence has left fans eager for updates on his comeback.
Recent optimism arose when Bleacher Report shared an Instagram photo showing Lonzo Ball back on the hardwood, engaged in practice with the Chicago Bulls. This glimpse of him in action sparked joy and excitement among fans who have been patiently waiting for his return.
Lonzo Ball's hiatus began during the 2021-22 season when he underwent surgery to address a torn left meniscus. Despite a successful operation, complications in the recovery process kept him off the court. Initially expected to return in the same season, ongoing discomfort led to the Bulls ruling him out entirely.
However, recent developments suggest a positive turn in Lonzo's journey to full recovery, indicating potential progress. As fans eagerly await official announcements, the sight of Lonzo back on the court practicing rekindles hope for his return to active play with the Chicago Bulls.
What Happened to Lonzo Ball?
Lonzo Ball faced a challenging season during 2022-23 due to a small meniscus tear in his left knee, leading to arthroscopic surgery. Initially expected to return in six to eight weeks, persistent pain and discomfort led to an extended absence.
The Chicago Bulls ultimately decided to shut him down for the season after ten weeks. Ball underwent a third knee surgery on March 16, 2023. Despite uncertainties, he confirmed on the "From The Point Podcast by Trae Young" that he won't play in the 2023-24 season due to a significant surgery and a prolonged recovery process.
The decision came after seeking various medical opinions and experiencing uncertainty about his future. Despite the setbacks, both Ball and the Bulls remain optimistic about his career, viewing the latest surgery as a potential revival. Ball expressed determination to return to the court, emphasizing a day-by-day approach and leaving the outcome in God's hands.
As the No. 2 pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, Ball's career, spanning 252 games over five seasons, has faced challenges, but he remains resolute in his commitment to working through the recovery process and making a comeback to professional basketball.
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Who is Lonzo Ball?
Lonzo Anderson Ball, born on October 27, 1997, is an American professional basketball player known for his skills as a point guard. Lonzo played college basketball for the UCLA Bruins for one season, where he earned consensus first-team All-American honors.
In 2017, the Los Angeles Lakers selected him as the second overall pick in the NBA draft, and he was recognized on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2018.
Before his professional career, Lonzo made a significant impact in high school at Chino Hills High School in 2016. During his senior year, he received numerous national high school player of the year honors and led his team, alongside his brothers LiAngelo and LaMelo, to an undefeated 35-0 record.
In his college freshman season, Lonzo led the nation in assists and set a UCLA record for the most assists in a season. His standout performance earned him the Wayman Tisdale Award as the top freshman in the nation.
Lonzo then transitioned to the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers, facing challenges with injuries that affected his playing time.
He was later traded to the New Orleans Pelicans and, more recently, joined the Chicago Bulls. Unfortunately, persistent knee injuries have sidelined him for a significant part of his tenure with the Bulls, causing him to miss the entire 2022–23 season.
Born
October 27, 1997 (age 26)
Birth Place
Anaheim, California, U.S.
Listed Height
6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
Listed Weight
190 lb (86 kg)
High School
Chino Hills (Chino Hills, California)
College
UCLA (2016–2017)
NBA Draft
2017: 1st round, 2nd overall pick
Playing Career
2017–present
Lonzo Ball Career
Lonzo Ball's NBA career began when he was selected as the second overall pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2017 draft. His rookie season showcased his potential, earning him recognition as the league MVP during the NBA Summer League.
Despite missing games due to injuries, Ball's performances included notable triple-doubles, breaking records for assists by a rookie. In the 2017–18 season, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
During the 2018–19 season, Ball faced injuries and adjustments to playing alongside LeBron James. Notably, he achieved a triple-double alongside James, a rare feat for teammates in Lakers history. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to a Grade 3 left ankle sprain, impacting his playing time.
In 2019, Ball joined the New Orleans Pelicans as part of a trade. His tenure with the Pelicans showcased his growth, with career-high performances in points and three-pointers. Heading into the 2020–21 season, Ball continued to develop, achieving career-highs in various statistical categories.
Ball's career took another turn in 2021 when he joined the Chicago Bulls. Despite early success, injuries have plagued his recent seasons, with knee surgeries and ongoing rehabilitation affecting his availability. As of January 2024, there are uncertainties about his return for the 2023–24 season, highlighting the challenges he faces in overcoming injuries.
Lonzo Ball's Personal Life
Lonzo Ball, the professional basketball player, has aspects of his personal life that have garnered public attention. In February 2017, a significant event occurred when Ball's mother, Tina, suffered a stroke, leading to a two-month hospitalization.
This challenging period marked a crucial time for Ball and his family, highlighting the impact of personal struggles beyond the basketball court.
In August of the same year, the Ball family took a step into the realm of reality television with the premiere of their own show, "Ball in the Family," exclusively on Facebook Watch. The show offers a glimpse into the daily lives and experiences of the Ball family, providing fans with a more intimate view of their dynamics.
Regarding his romantic life, Lonzo Ball has been in an on-and-off long-term relationship with Denise García. Together, they share the joy of parenthood as they have a daughter.
While the details of their relationship have experienced some fluctuations, Ball's journey in balancing his personal life, family challenges, and professional basketball career continues to be a subject of interest for fans who follow not only his performances on the court but also the chapters of his life beyond the game.
When Is Lonzo Ball Coming Back - FAQs
The exact return date of Lonzo Ball remains uncertain as he recovers from a knee injury.
A small meniscus tear in his left knee resulted in arthroscopic surgery, leading to persistent pain and an extended absence.
A significant surgery and a prolonged recovery process prompted him to sit out the entire 2023-24 season.
Lonzo Ball is an American professional basketball player, known for his time at UCLA, being the second overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, and playing for teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Chicago Bulls.
Lonzo Ball has faced challenges, including persistent knee injuries, surgeries, and adjustments to different teams, impacting his playing time and availability on the court.