“Outside noise doesn’t bother me” – Lonzo Ball SHUTS DOWN Stephen A. Smith and haters doubting NBA star’s basketball future

Lonzo Ball expresses confidence in NBA return despite injuries and fires back at Stephen A. Smith.

“Outside noise doesn’t bother me” – Lonzo Ball SHUTS DOWN Stephen A. Smith and haters doubting NBA star’s basketball future

Stephen A. Smith and Lonzo Ball (Images via Twitter / X)

Lonzo Ball, the guard for the Chicago Bulls, made a big announcement about his future in basketball. Speaking at Invest Fest in Atlanta on Saturday, a major business festival with a blend of music, investment, and entertainment, Ball stated without hesitation, “I’m going to play again.”

This significant announcement comes after Ball’s prolonged absence from the game since January 2022. A series of left knee surgeries, including a problematic cartilage transplant, have sidelined the Bulls guard. His participation in the 2023-24 season has already been ruled out, sparking widespread speculations about his NBA future.

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However, beyond his injuries, Ball also addressed recent controversies. “The outside noise doesn’t bother me,” Ball said, directly referencing ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith’s comments. “The Stephen A. thing, he has a wide platform. And to me, I just don’t appreciate when people put out fake news like that, especially someone of his stature that can touch a lot of people.”

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Ball’s statements about his return and the controversies show his motivated and focused mindset. Elaborating on his philosophy about life’s hardships, he said, “Life is not easy. If you want to get the most out of it, you gotta put your best foot forward.”  This is a strong indication that setbacks will not diminish his desire to return to the court.

Related: Stephen A. Smith escalates BEEF with Lonzo Ball, claims sources giving Bulls’ star injury updates are his doctors

The Chicago Bulls’ financial situation and what lies ahead for Lonzo Ball

Lonzo Ball
Lonzo Ball (image via Instagram/@zo)

The Chicago Bulls face a financial puzzle as the basketball community processes Ball’s strong commitment to his return. They have been granted a $10.2 million disabled player exception for the upcoming 2023-24 season due to Ball’s absence. However, the Bulls’ management has difficulties since they must stay within the $165.3 million luxury tax threshold and the $172.3 million hard cap.

The narrative’s core is Ball’s unwavering spirit despite the complex financial issues. His vision for the 2023-24 season sends a clear message to fans and critics alike: Lonzo Ball has unfinished business in the NBA. As he firmly stated, “I know in my near future that I will be back on the court for sure.”

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