Lonzo Ball scored 10 points in his first NBA action in nearly three years, marking a triumphant return to the court. After enduring multiple knee surgeries and a challenging rehabilitation process, he raised his right arm and blew a kiss to the enthusiastic crowd, a gesture that encapsulated his long-awaited comeback.
As the announcement resonated throughout the arena, fans erupted with excitement: “Checking in for the Chicago Bulls! No. 2! Lonzo Ball!” The atmosphere was electric, a testament to the anticipation surrounding his return.
This moment was nearly three years in the making, filled with determination and resilience.
In his comeback game, Ball showcased his skills, scoring 10 points in just 15 minutes during the Bulls’ thrilling 125-123 preseason victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Along with his scoring, he contributed an assist, a steal, and a block, demonstrating his all-around game in his first appearance since January 14, 2022.
“It felt a lot better playing than watching, I’ll say that much,” Ball remarked, struggling to encapsulate the emotions of being back on the hardwood.
Approaching his 27th birthday on October 27, Ball underwent a cartilage and meniscus transplant in his left knee last year after previous surgeries failed to resolve his injury. He expressed confidence in his performance, stating he felt “great” and experienced no discomfort during the game.
Receiving a warm ovation upon entering the game for Josh Giddey midway through the first quarter, Ball quickly made his presence felt. He sank an open 3-pointer from the left corner, courtesy of a pass from Nikola Vucevic, igniting another round of cheers from the crowd.
“Just blessed, man,” Ball reflected. “There were a lot of people that helped me get here, not just myself. Just to see the crowd and all the love I get from the city, you cannot replicate that in any type of way. And it’s real.”
In the postgame meeting, teammates expressed their admiration for Ball. Coby White presented him with the game ball, while Zach LaVine gifted him a jersey signed by the team, underscoring the camaraderie and support within the Bulls’ locker room.
The Bulls had initially set a 16-minute limit for Ball against Minnesota, aiming for two four-minute stints per half. However, after he played nearly six minutes in the third quarter, he sat out for the remainder of the game.
Coach Billy Donovan commended Ball’s effort, acknowledging the challenges of returning to the NBA after being sidelined for two and a half years. “I know it’s not the regular season yet, but still, for him to get out in an NBA game — I know he’s put a lot of work in to get himself ready for this moment,” Donovan stated.
The Bulls continue to monitor Ball’s activity levels and how they affect his knee. With a crowded backcourt featuring Coby White, who had a breakout season, and Giddey, acquired in a trade from Oklahoma City, the team is navigating the dynamics of player rotations.
Ball’s journey with the Bulls began positively after a sign-and-trade deal with the New Orleans Pelicans before the 2021-22 season. In his brief time on the court, he averaged 13 points and 5.1 assists while shooting an impressive 42.3% from beyond the arc over 35 games before injuries hindered his progress.
He explained that he received a new meniscus alongside the cartilage transplant and underwent a bone allograft, where the replacement bone is sourced from a donor. Ball traced his knee issues back to a meniscus tear he suffered while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018.
Now, after an arduous journey, he is back in action. Did he ever doubt this day would come?
“Not really, to be honest,” he admitted. “I had a goal to get back on the court. I know it was a long journey, a long process, but it all paid off because this was what I was looking forward to. I’m just glad it’s here now. I can finally go out and do what I love to do.”
