Image Source: Bleacher Report
Lonzo Ball has pushed back against speculation that his injury history could bring his NBA career to an end. Although the former All-Star hopeful spoke candidly about the physical challenges he faces every day, he made it clear that retirement is not currently his plan.
Lonzo Ball Responds to Retirement Speculation
During the latest episode of the Ball in the Family podcast, Ball reflected on his first nine seasons in the NBA and the sacrifices required to reach the league. His comments were emotional and quickly led to questions about whether he was preparing to walk away from basketball.
“I feel like I gave everything I had to hoop, and I feel like everything I got in my life is because of hoop,” Ball said. “I’m grateful to even make it to the league and be able to play for nine years.”
Those remarks sounded to some listeners like a farewell message. Ball later clarified the situation in a post on X, indicating that he remains prepared to pursue another opportunity. His response offered an important distinction: he is acknowledging the seriousness of his health while still hoping to continue his playing career.
The Daily Pain Behind Lonzo Ball’s Uncertain Future
Ball explained that he must manage knee pain every day. He said the knee recently swelled while he was playing, and that yoga, stretching and ice help him reach a point where he can still perform physical activities. However, the discomfort has not disappeared.
At times, Ball said, the pain made him feel as though he was “playing on stilts.” He also described difficulty stopping quickly, since sudden movements can aggravate the knee. Those limitations highlight the challenge facing a player who needs reliable mobility, balance and explosiveness to compete at the NBA level.
Ball’s injury history stretches back to his rookie season. The No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft suffered an MCL sprain while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. He later underwent arthroscopic surgery to repair a meniscus injury in July 2018.
A Complicated Injury Timeline
After joining the New Orleans Pelicans in the Anthony Davis trade, Ball produced the strongest stretch of his career. Across 118 appearances, he averaged 13.1 points, 6.4 assists and 5.5 rebounds per game while shooting 37.6 percent from three-point range.
Ball signed with the Chicago Bulls in 2021, but his health problems became increasingly severe. A torn meniscus ended his season, and ongoing knee trouble forced him to miss both the 2022-23 and 2023-24 campaigns.
In March 2023, Ball underwent a rare cartilage transplant after doctors determined that there was essentially nothing left of his meniscus. He previously described the condition as “bone on bone,” illustrating how serious the damage had become.
He eventually returned to NBA action during the 2024-25 season with Chicago. His playing time remained inconsistent, but he appeared in 35 of Cleveland’s first 51 games after joining the Cavaliers. Ball averaged 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.3 steals per game for Cleveland.
What Comes Next for the Veteran Guard?
Ball was traded to the Utah Jazz in February after Cleveland made a move involving James Harden. Utah waived him before he appeared in a game for the team, leaving him without an NBA roster spot as he looks toward the next stage of his career.
There have been few public signs that teams are actively pursuing Ball. Still, last season represented a meaningful development because it was the first time in several years that he was available with relative consistency.
- Ball says retirement is not his current decision.
- His knee continues to cause daily pain and swelling.
- Yoga, stretching and ice help him manage the discomfort.
- He remains available for a potential NBA opportunity.
The biggest question is whether a team would trust Ball’s health over a full season. His passing, defensive instincts and three-point ability could still make him valuable, but his availability will likely determine whether another franchise takes a chance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lonzo Ball retiring from the NBA?
No. Lonzo Ball denied the retirement speculation and indicated that he remains interested in finding another opportunity.
What injuries has Lonzo Ball suffered?
Ball has dealt with MCL, ankle, meniscus and chronic knee issues. He also underwent a cartilage transplant after extensive damage to his knee.
Which team did Lonzo Ball play for most recently?
Ball most recently played for the Cleveland Cavaliers before being traded to the Utah Jazz and waived without appearing in a game.
What were Lonzo Ball’s recent NBA statistics?
With Cleveland, Ball averaged 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.3 steals per game.
