Bulls' Lonzo Ball 'Healed Up' and 'Back on the Court' After Grueling Injury Setbacks

Lonzo Ball, the Chicago Bulls guard, has faced numerous challenges throughout his NBA career due to persistent injuries. After more than two years away from the court, the 26-year-old seems to be on the road to recovery.

Ball, who has undergone several knee surgeries, has not played an NBA game since January 2022. In a recent episode of the "What an Experience" podcast, he shared the details of his difficult journey.

"To keep it short, it all began with a meniscus tear back when I was with the Lakers," Ball said. "I ended up tearing it multiple times until there was no meniscus left. This led to bone-on-bone friction, and the cartilage was completely worn out."

To address the severe damage, Ball required a meniscus transplant from a donor, a bone allograft, and new cartilage. "All that healed up, and now I’m back on the court," he stated.

Ball mentioned that he lost about a year while doctors tried to determine the extent of his injuries during the 2021-22 season. Despite the setbacks, he remains optimistic about his future in basketball.

"I definitely plan on playing again," Ball said during Bulls media day in October. "I'm only 25. The rehab process has been going well so far, with no setbacks. So, for me, it’s just about staying positive and continuing the hard work."

Both Ball and the Bulls are hopeful that he will be able to contribute to the team during the 2024-25 season. The Bulls, who finished the 2021-22 season with 46 wins and a playoff appearance, are eager to see Ball return to his improved form. Before his knee issues, Ball had shown significant improvement in his 3-point shooting and free throw percentages since joining the Bulls.

Lonzo Ball, the No. 2 overall draft pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017, is determined to overcome his injury setbacks and make a successful comeback to the NBA.