A 24-year-old Lonzo Ball is on his third team in five seasons. After being traded from the Lakers in 2019, he found himself in New Orleans where he helped Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram compete for the Pelicans.
Now, ‘Zo is in Chicago and although he’s only played 13 games, there is a sense he’s found his permanent home.
Ahead of his first return to L.A. as a Bull, Ball looked back on his origins, seeming appreciative of his time as a Laker while maintaining optimism for the future.
(via NBC)
“I think everything happens for a reason. I’m where I’m supposed to be now,” Ball said. “It feels great. Early on the process, AK (Arturas Karnisovas) and Marc (Eversley) did a great job. Obviously, the coaches wanted me here. My teammates, we all have great relationships.
For me, I wanted to come to a place where I felt like I fit, a place that wanted me for me and didn’t want me to change. Chicago is the best place for me.”
As a SoCal native, donning the Purple and Gold was an experience that ‘Zo very much enjoyed. And while some players might resent the team for trading them, the young guard is choosing to focus on the positives instead.
“I know it’s part of the business, but it was the first time I felt like somebody didn’t really want me in a way, I guess. But it was Anthony Davis, so there was no shame in that. He’s one of the best players to ever play.”
I just think I’ve been through a lot of stuff. And at the end of the day, basketball is a game and a game that I love. I’m very grateful for the situation I’m in,” Ball said. “I think a lot of the things you can worry about doesn’t really hold a lot of weight in real life. I’m blessed to be able to play the game I love, get paid well and take care of my family. That’s pretty much all that matters to me.”
With averages of 11.8 points, 4.3 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game on 41% shooting, it’s fair to say that Lonzo is thriving in ‘The Windy City.’
Still, it’s hard not to wonder how things would be like now had the Lakers not traded him back in 2019.
