Lonzo Ball Makes Comeback: NBA Star Returns After Three Years of Knee Surgeries

Lonzo Ball Makes Comeback

NBA star Lonzo Ball made a triumphant return to the court after nearly three years of recovery from multiple knee surgeries. Playing for the Chicago Bulls, Ball scored 10 points in just 15 minutes during a thrilling 125-123 pre-season victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

At 26, this marked Ball's first game since January 14, 2022. He also contributed with an assist, a steal, and a block. Reflecting on his comeback, Ball expressed his excitement, stating, "It felt a lot better playing than watching. I can't even really put into words how I felt out there."

His road to recovery included a cartilage and meniscus transplant in March 2023, marking his third knee operation in over a year. Ball has faced challenges since tearing his meniscus in 2018 while with the Los Angeles Lakers.

In a podcast, he shared that he felt "great" during the game and that his knee didn’t trouble him at all. For now, Ball will be on a minutes restriction and will avoid back-to-back games. He is expected to play in the Bulls' final pre-season match against the Cleveland Cavaliers and the season opener against the New Orleans Pelicans.

"I had a goal to get back on the court," Ball said. "It was a long journey, but it all paid off. Just to feel the crowd's energy and support from the city is something you can't replicate."

Ball was drafted second overall by the Lakers in 2017, later traded to the Pelicans in 2019, and then moved to the Bulls before the 2021-22 season.

Lonzo Ball Makes Comeback: NBA Star Returns After Three Years of Knee Surgeries