As we await the NBA draft that’s now been postponed until October, there’s a lot to look forward to in this class. From USC’s Onyeka Okongwu to LaMelo Ball, it should be an exciting draft. There is a sense of unpredictability though, given that all NCAA tournaments were cancelled due to the pandemic.
However, there is one player in particular that has shown huge potential which could translate over to the NBA immediately. The younger brother of New Orleans guard Lonzo, LaMelo spent this season playing down under in the NBL for Illawarra Hawks, where he became a star as an 18-year old.
Although a foot injury shortened his season, Ball heavily impressed, averaging 17 points, 7.4 boards, and 6.8 assists per contest through 12 games. Thanks to his solid campaign, the 6-7 guard was named the NBL Rookie of the Year.
Ball is the full package at his position. His length, athleticism, and high basketball IQ is very entertaining to watch. He was one of the youngest players in the NBL this past season, yet he put up ridiculous numbers in every single category.
His versatile skill-set at such a young age is very promising. To have such a high IQ for the game at just 18-years old is unheard of and from that reason alone, Ball shouldn’t have any issue being an immediate hit in the NBA.
With taking all of that into consideration, let’s dive into three reasons LaMelo Ball is the most NBA-ready player in the 2020 NBA Draft.
