Lonzo Ball makes joyful return to court as Bulls star plays in first NBA game since 2022

Lonzo Ball has faced a difficult road over past few years as he dealt with injuries, but on Wednesday, he made a huge step forward in his return.

The 26-year-old Bulls guard played in Chicago’s preseason game against the Timberwolves, his first NBA action since the 2021-22 season.

The moment was a long time coming for Ball, who last played in an NBA game on Jan. 14, 2022. And to make the moment even more impressive, Ball hit his very first shot, a 3-pointer from the corner.

He finished the game with 10 points in 15 minutes of play, and he also added one rebound and one assist.

Ahead of the game, Ball referred to himself as “full of joy” for his return.

“It’s not the same body I started off with,” Ball said. “But I think I can still be productive and effective on the court. That’s why I’m still trying to play.”

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Lonzo Ball injury historyYearTeamGames played2017-18Lakers522018-19Lakers472019-20Pelicans632020-21Pelicans552021-22Bulls352022-23Bulls02023-24Bulls0Ever since his rookie season, Ball has battled injuries. He’s dealt with at least one issue in each year of his seven-year NBA career. Ball’s primary injuries have been in his lower body, as he’s dealt with various hip, knee and ankle ailments.

No injury has been worse for Ball than his latest knee injury. Ball needed arthroscopic knee surgery in January 2022 after suffering a meniscus tear and a bone bruise in his left knee, which ultimately meant he missed the rest of the season. Then, before the 2022-23 season, Ball underwent another surgery, leading to him missing the entirety of that campaign. 

In March 2023, Ball had a third surgery on his knee, which initially had him out indefinitely and eventually out for a second-straight full year in 2023-24.

Lonzo Ball career statsMPGPPGAPGRPGFG%3P%32.511.96.25.740%36.4%When Ball has been healthy, he’s been a quality contributor in the NBA. The former No. 2 overall pick out of UCLA was consistently one of the better rebounding guards in the league before his two-year absence, and he gave quality defense to go along with over 10 points, six assists, and five rebounds per game.

If he can return to form, he gives the Bulls a good player to try and help them get back to the playoffs.