The Los Angeles Lakers finalized what many thought was meant to be when they selected Lonzo Ball with the second overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. Ball is now poised to take over as the point guard of the franchise, with a path cleared by the Lakers trading D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets.
While Ball’s father, LaVar, certainly loves to soak up the spotlight, Lonzo remains a humble player, eager to demonstrate his talents at the NBA level. It is that very same calm demeanor that translates well onto the court, never letting the game come too fast at him.
Thus, many are in agreement that Ball is ready to meet the expectations that come with playing for the Lakers. Ball also gets to reap the benefits of the lifestyle that comes with being part of a premier franchise.
An early taste of that comes Friday, as Ball will throw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to the Dodgers beginning a series with the Colorado Rockies, per Daniel Starkand of DodgerBlue.com:
The Los Angeles Dodgers announced Lonzo Ball, selected No. 2 overall in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Lakers, will throw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to Friday’s series opener against the Colorado Rockies.
Considering Ball is from nearby Chino Hills and a product of UCLA, he presumably will receive a loud welcome at Dodger Stadium. Further working his favor, the crowd has historically been pro-Lakers.
Ball will join Brandon Ingram and Luke Walton, among other Lakers representatives, to throw out the first pitch at Chavez Ravine.
Later this year, the Dodgers will host the annual Lakers night. A special ticket package that includes a co-branded t-shirt is currently available for purchase.
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