Lonzo Ball gave LeBron James a preview of what he can expect if he joins the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018, scoring a career-high 36 points to lead his team to a 103-102 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers Wednesday in the Las Vegas Summer League at the Thomas and Mack Center.
James was watching courtside, possibly scouting his possible teammate, as Ball led the Lakers to their first Summer League win. He also had 11 assists and came two rebounds short of his second triple-double in his professional career as the Lakers improved to 2-2. It was reported that James plans to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2018 and join the Lakers.
James also noticed that Ball wasn’t wearing his signature Big Baller Brand ZO2s. The rookie wore a pair of purple Nikes, a video of which was posted by James on his Instagram account with the caption, "Just. Do. It." He left before the game ended. Ball made 12 of 22 shots, including 3-for-10 from three-point range and had five steals and two blocks, Ivica Zubac added 21 while Kyle Kuzma had 13 points and 12 boards for the Lakers.
After the game, Ball said he appreciated that James took the time to watch the game. When asked if James’ presence inspired him, the rookie replied: “no, but I hope he saw a good game." Ball’s performance was a huge improvement from his debut game, where he scored just five points on 2-for-15 shooting.
However, his controversial father, LaVar, defended his so, insisting that he will win the Rookie of the Year award and lead the Lakers to the playoffs.
Showdown between Ball, Fultz did not happen
The much-anticipated showdown between 76ers’ No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz and Ball didn’t happen as the former is currently resting his sprained ankle.
Furkan Korkmaz paced the 76ers with 19 points, Alex Poythress had 16, Larry Drew II had 15 and James Blackmon chipped in 12 as Philadelphia slipped to 1-3.
The 76ers were leading, 100-98, but Ball scored on a layup with a foul from Korkmaz. After ball completed the three-point play, Blackmon gave the Sixers the lead anew with a layup.
In the next possession, Zubac was fouled by Jonah Bolden and he sank two foul shots with 4.6 seconds left. The 76ers had a chance to steal the win but Drew missed a 27-foot triple as time expired.
Ball gave reason why he’s wearing Nikes
Ball gave a simple explanation for why he was wearing Nikes instead of his signature Big Baller Brand ZO2s. "When you're a big baller, you can wear whatever you want," Ball said, adding “Mamba mentality”. Ball and the Lakers will next face the Cavaliers and all eyes will be on what shoes he will wear.
