Lonzo’s Ballin’ Out
For a young high school kid playing college basketball there is a major adjustment phase. Most players take their first year in college to get familiar with the pace of the college game, the coaching staff and overall feel for the game. Lonzo Ball’s story has been quite different. The UCLA freshman has been extraordinary so far and is putting up great numbers (13.7 PPG, 8.3 APG, 5.3 RPG, 1.5 SPG and shooting 43% from behind the 3-point line). He does a little bit of everything and has the work ethic of a NBA pro. He is also rumored to be the top pick in this years NBA draft. He has led them to a #2 National ranking and an amazing 13-1 record. How deep they go into tournament play remains to be seen.
It’s rare to find a player who is 6’6 with the PG skills that Lonzo has. He is a pass first PG who will get you the ball if you are open. The Chino Hills High School grad, who along with his brothers Lamelo and LiAngelo, absolutely torched their high school league.
Just recently, LiAngelo Ball scored 72 points in a High School regulation game…after scoring 56 the previous game. Little brother Lamelo Ball has already committed to attend UCLA and setting the internet on fire with his highlights. Lonzo has indeed set the bar very high high for his siblings. We will see how these brothers develop, but one thing is for certain is that Lonzo has the ball in his court right now. NBA scouts are rushing to UCLA games with the hopes of catching a glimpse of the elder Ball brother. He has the skills to compete at the professional level right now. One year and done seems likely for Lonzo, but Steve Alford, the UCLA coach has two more of the brothers coming down the pipeline.
Even though the Bruins lost their last game to Oregon, they appear to still be the team to beat. Once Lonzo starts to get that animal instinct it’s hard to guard him. His decision making ability on the court is what impressed me most about him. During the is on the attack more than anything else he’s fine. Stronger competition will force a great player to