Lonzo Ball grew up in Chino Hills, California, where his high school career at Chino Hills High School set the stage for his future in professional basketball. As the son of LaVar Ball, he quickly became a national figure, and his team history reflects a mix of on-court development, business decisions, and family influence.
From his debut with the Los Angeles Lakers to his current role in the NBA, Lonzo Ball has navigated a career marked by trades, evolving roles, and continuous effort to refine his game. This article details the most important chapters of his team history, supported by a timeline of teams, career stats, and key context.
| Season | Team | League | GP | PPG | APG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017–18 | Los Angeles Lakers | NBA | 54 | 7.3 | 3.4 |
| 2018–19 | Chicago Bulls | NBA | 66 | 9.4 | 4.5 |
| 2019–20 | New Orleans Pelicans | NBA | 47 | 8.4 | 5.4 |
| 2020–21 | Washington Wizards | NBA | 43 | 7.1 | 5.5 |
| 2021–22 | Chicago Bulls (2) | NBA | 38 | 6.0 | 3.5 |
| 2022–23 | Cleveland Cavaliers | NBA | 61 | 5.3 | 4.6 |
| 2023–24 | Cleveland Cavaliers (2) | NBA | 4 | 0.5 | 1.0 |
Early Basketball Years and High School Success
Lonzo Ball began drawing national attention while playing alongside his brothers at Chino Hills High School. As a point guard, he led the team to an undefeated season and earned Mr. California Basketball honors. This period framed his fundamentals, court vision, and leadership long before he entered professional leagues.
NBA Draft and Los Angeles Lakers Era
Selected second overall in the 2017 NBA Draft, Lonzo Ball joined the Los Angeles Lakers and was seen as a franchise point guard. He showcased elite passing and defensive instincts, earning NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors. His time with the Lakers established his identity as a high-level facilitator who could impact the game without dominating scoring.
Chicago Bulls and Role Evolution
Traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2018, Lonzo Ball became a full-time starting point guard. He adapted his game to emphasize outside shooting and playmaking within a specific system. Despite injuries, he delivered strong performances that proved he could run an offense and contribute in key moments outside Los Angeles.
Injuries and New Orleans Chapter
With the New Orleans Pelicans, Lonzo Ball dealt with ankle issues that limited his availability. When healthy, he provided veteran leadership and steady playmaking off the bench. His tenure here illustrated how durability and consistent floor spacing could extend his value in a rotation role.
Later Career and Current Status
After Washington and a return to Chicago, Lonzo Ball signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers. There, he embraced a sixth-man role, contributing steady scoring and playmaking off the bench. His career has consistently revolved around facilitating, shooting, and making his team better, even as lineups and systems have changed.
Key Takeaways and Impact
- Developed elite fundamentals and leadership at Chino Hills High School.
- Entered the NBA as a high-floor point guard with strong playmaking and defense.
- Proved he could start and run an offense with the Bulls and earlier Lakers teams.
- Adapted to reduced minutes and a bench role later in his career while remaining a steady contributor.
- Embraced evolving systems and remained a valued floor general across multiple teams.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which teams did Lonzo Ball play for in the NBA?
Lonzo Ball played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Pelicans, Washington Wizards, and Cleveland Cavaliers during his NBA career.
How did Lonzo Ball perform in his rookie season with the Lakers?
In his rookie season, Lonzo Ball averaged 7.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, earning NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors while starting at point guard for the Lakers.
What role did Lonzo Ball have with the Chicago Bulls during his starts?
With the Chicago Bulls, Lonzo Ball served as a starting point guard, running the offense, creating for others, and contributing solid scoring and playmaking numbers over two separate stints.
How did injuries affect Lonzo Ball's team history and opportunities?
Ankle injuries limited his availability during his time with the New Orleans Pelicans and influenced later role changes, leading him to prioritize availability and eventually settle into a reliable bench role.