As the preseason continues, LaMelo Ball is growing more and more comfortable in the National Basketball League (NBL) and with his new team in the Illawarra Hawks. In his third preseason game with the Hawks on Sunday against the South East Melbourne Phoenix, Ball showed out early with typical flashiness that fans of his have become accustomed to.
During the first quarter and after forcing a steal with impressive defensive pressure, Ball raced downcourt before dishing a no-look pass to Todd Blanchfield who finished the play with a layup for the assist.
Ball had another big night for the Hawks as he tied for leading scorer honors at halftime with 10 points. He also flashed more of his defensive acumen during the second half.
With a strong second-half performance, Illawarra would pull away for a 109-98 victory. Ball and the Hawks have three more preseason games remaining before the regular season starts on Oct. 6 against the Brisbane Bullets.
