Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball has been sidelined from NBA action since January 2022. However, there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel for both him and the team. Recently, Ball shared a video showcasing himself executing a couple of running dunks.
While this may not necessarily signify his complete recovery, it serves as a morale boost amidst a rehabilitation journey marked by setbacks. According to reports, Ball has resumed sprinting and making cuts on the court earlier this month.
Lonzo Ball Hints at Possible Return
Indeed, just a few months ago, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith made claims suggesting Lonzo Ball struggled even with basic movements like standing up from a seated position.
Ball took offense to these assertions and attempted to refute them with a short video clip. However, the clip didn’t provide much reassurance given Ball’s extensive injury history. Despite his efforts, the narrative surrounding his injuries overshadowed the brief footage he shared.
The former second overall pick has faced a tumultuous two years due to ongoing issues stemming from a meniscus tear. Initially, he underwent arthroscopic surgery with a recovery timeline of 6-8 weeks. Unfortunately, after two and a half months, he was still unable to return to action and was ruled out for the remainder of the season due to persistent discomfort during physical activity.
The following season, ahead of the Bulls’ 2022-23 campaign, Ball opted for another arthroscopic procedure, this time with a recovery period of 4-6 weeks. However, even after nine months post-surgery, he still struggled with basic movements, such as running, jumping, and flexing his knees properly.
Despite his efforts to rehabilitate, Ball remained unable to perform routine basketball activities, leading to his sidelining for the entire 2023-24 season. In late February, he underwent a cartilage transplant in his left knee, marking yet another setback in his journey to recovery.
Recollection in its entirety.
A prudent strategy demands ample patience, a quality Lonzo Ball has demonstrated. The Bulls organization, too, has exercised patience, as have the fans eagerly awaiting Ball’s return. At just 26 years old, he still has plenty of basketball left to play before considering retirement.
In February, Ball briefly reappeared, albeit not actively participating, during Bulls practice.
During this time, he showcased his shooting prowess, reminiscent of his career-high 43.2 percent conversion rate on 3-point attempts in his last healthy season. Memories of his solid perimeter defense and adept floor leadership were also not far from fans’ minds.