Chicago Bulls Player, Lonzo Ball Will Have Cartilage Transplant Surgery in Hopes to Save Basketball Career

“My main focus has been on returning to the court and getting to a place where I can rejoin my teammates. This has been a frustrating process, but I’m confident these next steps are the best path forward. The support of my family, friends, fans and medical staff throughout my recovery is what keeps me moving forward. I can’t wait to get back to what I love doing most – playing basketball.”

Ball has already been through two surgeries on his knee since he last played an NBA game last year on Jan. 14, 2022. His most recent surgery occurred in September. He has been unable to play and was supposed to have the knee reevaluated in 4-6 weeks after the surgery took place. He has yet to partake in any basketball-related activities without experiencing discomfort.

“I continue to admire Lonzo’s perseverance throughout this journey,” said Bulls Exec. VP of Basketball Operations Artūras Karnišovas. “This has been a long and challenging road for him, and this decision has been a difficult one to make. The organization is behind him, and he has our full support. Our training and medical staff continue their commitment to Lonzo’s rehabilitation and to working with him throughout this next phase to ensure his healthy return to basketball.”

Ball was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers as the No. 2 overall draft pick in 2017. He was then traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in 2019 where he played for two years before a sign-and-trade deal sent him to the Chicago Bulls. He was averaging 13 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5.1 assists through 35 games until he suffered his injury last year.

Lonzo is the oldest of the Ball brothers, who all play professional basketball. LiAngelo is currently in the NBA G League and the youngest, LaMelo is a member of the Charlotte Hornets.