Guard LaMelo Ball is projected to be the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Prior to the NBA Draft, Ball has been competing for the Illawarra Hawks in the National Basketball League.

LaMelo Ball has strong on-court vision, making him a key playmaker. Photo Credit – bleacherreport.com

In his rookie season with the Hawks, Ball played in 12 games. He averaged 17 points per game as well as seven assists. Ball was also named the NBL Rookie of the Year. Additionally, he nabbed 7.5 rebounds per game and averaged 37% when shooting from the court.

Growing up in California, Ball attended Chino Hills High School; the same as his brothers Lonzo and LiAngelo. Ball quickly was recognized as a standout player during his freshman year.

As a freshman, ball averaged 16.4 points and 3.8 assists per game. During his second season, Ball flourished. He averaged 26.7 points and 10 assists per game. To top it off, Ball put up a 92 point performance in a 146-123 win.

During what would have been his junior year of high school, Ball moved overseas. He competed for Prienu Skycop in Lithuania, alongside LiAngelo. When competing against Zalgiris, the best Lithuanian team, Ball had a game-high 19 points and six assists in 27 minutes played. Additionally, he was competing against former NBA players Beno Udrih and Axel Toupane.

In his most recent season with the Hawks, Ball scored double figures in 11 of 12 games. Moreover, he tallied 20 points or more three times while recording 30 points or more once.

Standing at 6’6″, Ball is a strong player and good combo guard. He’s projected to go first overall as teams will have the ability to build an uptempo attack around him.

Looking back about a year ago, it was unlikely that Ball would be selected higher in the draft than his brother, Lonzo. Despite being only 18, Ball’s game has developed immensely.

The NBA Draft is scheduled to take place on June 20 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

Featured Image – abc.net