Lamelo Ball

LaMelo Ball, alongside his brother LiAngelo, signed with the Lithuanian team BC Prienai in 2017. This marked a significant and unusual move as Ball chose to skip traditional high school basketball in the U.S. for an international experience, which would later shape his path to professional basketball.

LaMelo Ball signed with the Illawarra Hawks in the Australian National Basketball League on a two-year deal with an option to return to the United States. This decision marked an important step in his career as he opted to play professionally overseas instead of going the traditional college route to the NBA.

After a strong season with the Illawarra Hawks in the Australian NBL, LaMelo Ball was named the NBL Rookie of the Year. Ball had impressed with his skills and adaptability in a professional league, which bolstered his status as a top prospect for the NBA Draft and showcased his potential to scouts worldwide.

During his stint with the Illawarra Hawks in the Australian NBL, LaMelo Ball recorded a triple-double with 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists against the Cairns Taipans, becoming the youngest player in NBL history to achieve a triple-double. This performance boosted his reputation as a top prospect for the NBA draft.

While playing for the Illawarra Hawks in the NBL, LaMelo Ball suffered a foot injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season. This injury raised concerns about his durability as a player, but his earlier performances had already established him as a leading prospect for the upcoming NBA Draft.

In a groundbreaking move, LaMelo Ball became part of the new ownership group for the Illawarra Hawks, the team he played for in the Australian NBL. This purchase marked an unusual but strategic investment for a young player, showcasing his commitment to the development of the sport and young talent.

LaMelo Ball was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the third overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Known for his exceptional passing and ball-handling skills, Ball had played professionally overseas in Australia for the Illawarra Hawks before entering the draft. His draft selection was highly anticipated, as he was considered one of the top prospects in the draft class.

LaMelo Ball was named the NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2020-2021 season, despite missing part of the season due to a wrist injury. Ball averaged 15.7 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game, showcasing his versatility and skill as a point guard. His performance helped the Charlotte Hornets reach the play-in tournament.

After being sidelined with an ankle injury, LaMelo Ball returned to the court in December 2022, providing a much-needed boost to the Charlotte Hornets. His return was marked by an impressive performance, quickly reintegrating into the team's dynamic and helping steer his team back to competitive form in the NBA season.

Charlotte Hornets' guard LaMelo Ball was selected as a reserve for the NBA All-Star Game in 2023, marking his first appearance in the prestigious annual event. This selection was a testament to his high level of play and the impact he had on his team in only his third year in the league.