Despite playing in just three preseason games and being in Australia for roughly a month, LaMelo Ball has already left those with the National Basketball League and Illawarra Hawks both surprised and impressed. With each preseason game, Ball has steadily improved, topped off with his near triple-double in a win over the Perth Wildcats.
Ball could hardly have picked a better time to show out as nearly every NBA team sent a scout to the NBL Blitz. NBA scouts weren’t the only ones in attendance as ESPN’s DraftExpress took in the Ball experience first-hand before releasing a glowing profile while lifting him to No. 3 in their latest mock draft.
In the profile, DraftExpress’ Jonathan Givony talked to Illawarra head coach Matt Flinn about Ball.
“He’s exceeded expectations. He’s come with absolutely zero baggage. He’s assimilated into his teammates, and they genuinely like having him around. His willingness to share the ball, his willingness to pass, that’s fun to be around, and that’s fun to play with. I’ve gotten good feedback that this is the happiest people have seen him in a while.”
Ignoring the obvious connection of Ball being his happiest and also being away from his father, LaVar, seeing Ball flourish with the Hawks already this season speaks volumes of his skillset.
While Ball has always been a talented player, he had gained a reputation as a selfish player as his highlights of half-court shots and obscene scoring amounts made the rounds years ago. Whether the reputation was fair or foul, Ball has quickly shed it in Australia.
This also spells great things for Ball’s upcoming season with the Hawks. If the team is gelling this quickly around Ball, it could lead to great things for Illawarra this year.
