Lonzo Ball Bio
Lonzo Anderson Ball (born October 27, 1997) is an American professional basketball player for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). A point guard, he played college basketball for one season with the UCLA Bruins, earning consensus first-team All-American honors before the Los Angeles Lakers selected him with the second overall pick of the 2017 NBA draft. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2018. As a senior at Chino Hills High School in 2016, Ball was awarded multiple national high school player of the year honors, leading his team to an undefeated 35–0 record and the consensus national top ranking. As a college freshman in 2016–17, he led the nation in assists and broke the UCLA record for the most assists in a season. Ball also won the Wayman Tisdale Award as the top freshman in the nation.
Early Life and Background
Lonzo Ball was born in Anaheim, California, to LaVar and Tina Ball, both of whom were former college basketball players. He began playing basketball at the age of two and idolized LeBron James, following him closely during James’ early NBA career. Growing up with his younger brothers, LiAngelo and LaMelo, the trio played together on teams coached by their father until they reached high school. Ball attended Chino Hills High School in Chino Hills, California, where he excelled in basketball. In his junior year, he averaged 25 points, 11 rebounds, 9.1 assists, and 5 blocks per game. In his senior year, he led his team to a 35–0 record and a state title, earning national honors such as Naismith Prep Player of the Year and Mr. Basketball USA. By the end of his senior year, Ball was rated as a consensus five-star recruit in the 2016 high school class. He signed a National Letter of Intent to attend the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and play for the Bruins.
Path to Basketball
As a freshman at UCLA in 2016–17, Lonzo Ball was named to the preseason watch list for the John R. Wooden Award, given annually to the top college player in the nation. His exceptional vision and passing skills led UCLA to a remarkable turnaround, helping the team achieve a 31–5 record. Ball led the nation in assists and broke the UCLA record for the most assists in a season. He was named the MVP of the Wooden Legacy tournament and remained a finalist for several prestigious awards, including the Naismith College Player of the Year. After a successful college career, Ball declared for the 2017 NBA draft, where he was projected to be a top-3 pick.
Lonzo Ball Career
Early Career (2017–2019)
Lonzo Ball was selected with the second overall pick of the 2017 NBA draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. He quickly became a key player for the team, showcasing his skills during the NBA Summer League, where he was named MVP. In his rookie season, Ball played in 52 games, averaging 10.2 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.9 rebounds. He faced challenges with injuries, missing significant time due to shoulder and knee issues. Despite these setbacks, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2018.
Breakthrough (2019–2021)
After two seasons with the Lakers, Lonzo Ball was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in July 2019 as part of a deal for All-Star Anthony Davis. He made his debut for the Pelicans on October 22, 2019, and quickly established himself as a versatile player. Ball recorded his first triple-double of the season on January 18, 2020, and continued to improve his shooting performance, particularly from three-point range. He ended the 2020–21 season with career highs in scoring, three-point percentage, and field goal percentage.
Notable Works and Milestones
Lonzo Ball’s signature work includes his impactful performances during his time with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he became known for his improved shooting and playmaking abilities. He was recognized for his contributions to the team, earning accolades such as the Wayman Tisdale Award during his college career and being named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
Lonzo Ball Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Lonzo Ball has received several nominations, including recognition for his outstanding performances in college basketball and the NBA.
Lonzo Ball Awards Won
Lonzo Ball has achieved notable awards, including the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2018 and the Wayman Tisdale Award in 2017.
Lonzo Ball Family
Lonzo Ball is in a relationship with Denise García, with whom he has a daughter. He was born to LaVar and Tina Ball, both of whom played college basketball.
Personal Life
In February 2017, Lonzo Ball’s mother, Tina, suffered a stroke and was hospitalized for two months. He and his family also starred in their own reality show, Ball in the Family, which premiered on Facebook Watch in August 2017. Ball has expressed an interest in music, having released several rap singles and an album during his career. He has also participated in various entertainment ventures, including a stint on The Masked Singer.
