In a triumphant return to the NBA after two and a half years, Chicago Bulls point guard Lonzo Ball received an enthusiastic standing ovation from the United Center crowd on Wednesday night, marking his comeback from significant knee issues.
Ball’s journey back to the court began with chronic pain in his left knee during the 2021-22 season. Following three surgeries and extensive rehabilitation, he made his comeback in the first quarter of the preseason game, making an immediate impact by sinking a three-pointer from the left corner.
During the 15 minutes he played, Ball scored 10 points, shooting 4-for-6, contributing to the Bulls’ 125-123 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
After the game, Ball expressed relief and excitement about returning to action, stating that he wasn’t focused on his knee during the game. “That’s a positive thing,” he commented. “I didn’t feel it at all. I felt like I was moving great. So now it’s just about building. Just continue to do it night in and night out.”
Ball’s comeback is considered one of the most remarkable in NBA history. He was averaging 13 points and 5.1 assists when ongoing knee pain sidelined him, with his last game played on January 14, 2022. After enduring three surgeries, including a cartilage transplant in March 2023, he was determined to return to the court.
In a heartfelt gesture, his Bulls teammates honored Ball’s return by presenting him with a game ball. Reflecting on his long recovery, Ball said, “I had a goal to get back on the court. And I knew it was a long journey, a long process. But it all paid off because this is what I was looking forward to. I’m just glad it’s here now and I can finally go out and do what I love to do.”