Bulls’ Lonzo Ball: “I Definitely Plan on Playing Again”

Lonzo Ball with UCLA in 2017
Lonzo Ball with UCLA in 2017. Photo by Peter Joneleit/CSM/REX/Shutterstock (8451262c)

The Chicago Bulls’ Lonzo Ball isn’t thinking of retiring despite still dealing with a knee injury that kept him sidelined for almost two years. Speaking with reporters during Bulls’ media day on Tuesday, Ball reiterated his intention to continue playing basketball.

“I definitely plan on playing again,” Ball said. “I’m only 25, I feel like the rehab process has been going well so far. No setbacks. So for me it’s just keeping my head up, just keep doing the work.”

Ball suffered a meniscus tear in January 2022 and had to undergo surgery that ruled him out for the rest of the 2021-22 season. The former second-overall pick missed the entire 2022-23 campaign, having two more surgeries on the same knee. The Bulls also indicated that they expect him to sit out the upcoming season as well.

“Rehab’s been long. Feels like every day is almost the same. I’m getting better each week, and that’s all I can ask for,” Ball added.

Ball arrived in Chicago ahead of the 2021-22 season and only managed to play 35 games in a Bulls jersey. The 25-year-old player played well before suffering an injury, averaging 13.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. He previously played for the Los Angeles Lakers and the New Orleans Pelicans. 

Ben loves sports so much but prefers watching other people do it. He prefers not to share what teams he's supporting but he is willing to admit that Lebron James is, in fact, the king.