While LaMelo Ball’s time in the National Basketball League was an objectively positive one, there were still some aspects out of Ball’s control that weighed against him. For as much good as Ball’s time with the Illawarra Hawks did to legitimize him as a prospect, various aspects of the team’s construction held him back.
Even prior to the injury that sidelined Aaron Brooks for the year, the Hawks were a team without any notable role players. Once Brooks went down and the reigns were handed to Ball, the offensive burden was too great. Ball’s team lacked shooting all season and the lone true pick and roll threat was a way-past-his-prime Josh Boone.
In a recent piece breaking down Ball’s path from his freshman year at Chino Hills through his season with Illawarra, DraftExpress’ Mike Schmitz talked of a sense around the NBA that Ball’s teammates in Australia held him back.
“Even though his season was cut short because of a bone bruise in his foot and his team struggled, there’s a belief that Ball didn’t have enough help and that he’ll look even more dynamic at the next level with an elite finisher and shooters around him.”
The advanced numbers surrounding the NBL aren’t as readily available as they are for the NBA. Because of that, Ball’s impact isn’t quite as easily explainable. But those who watched Ball could see his impact on the court this season for Illawarra.
