Lonzo Ball Fires Back at Retirement Rumors With Strong Message

Lonzo Ball responded to retirement rumors, insisting he is still planning to play basketball. The point guard entered the NBA as the second overall pick in 2017, but struggles with injuries have hampered his performance. Since joining the Los Angeles Lakers, he has also played for the New Orleans Pelicans, Chicago Bulls, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite dealing with injuries, Ball feels he has given his best effort to the game, stating, "I feel like I gave everything I had to hoop."

The 28-year-old acknowledged that he may have failed to reach his full potential, expressing, "I'm not sure I ever got to my peak, and damn, that [expletive] sucks." However, Ball emphasized that his struggles are far from the worst, stating, "But at the same time, there's people that don't have meals at night to eat."

Ball dismissed the rumors of his retirement, jokingly responding, "I retired? News to me lol cuz I'm still waiting for a call..." He remains active, playing in over 63 games as a Cavalier in the 2025-26 season. Through the first 35 games, Ball averaged 4.6 points, four rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. Ball's younger brother, LaMelo, stands poised to begin his NBA journey with the Minnesota Timberwolves.