Lonzo Ball: Retirement Rumors, Current Status, Injury History, How Tall Is He & What Happened to Him?
Lonzo Ball is one of the most intriguing NBA storylines of the past decade. Drafted second overall in 2017, Ball’s career has been defined by elite playmaking, defensive instincts, multiple injuries, comebacks and, most recently, questions about whether he has effectively played his last NBA game — even though he hasn’t officially retired. In this deep-dive article, we’ll answer all major questions: Did Lonzo Ball retire? What happened to him? Is he retiring soon? How tall is he? And what does the future hold?
Early Career & Breakout — Drafted as a Top Prospect
Lonzo Ball entered the NBA as one of the most talked-about prospects in years. After a standout collegiate career at UCLA, he was selected No. 2 overall in the 2017 NBA Draft. Expectations were sky-high: at 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) with excellent court vision, defensive instincts, and rebounding — rare for a traditional point guard — Ball looked poised to be a franchise centerpiece.
In his rookie year with the Los Angeles Lakers, Ball showed promise, earning NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors while averaging near a double-double in points and assists.
Injuries Halt Momentum — Knee Problems Begin
The first major turning point in Ball’s career came with injuries. While early injuries included a meniscus tear, his knee issues escalated dramatically during his stint with the Chicago Bulls. This included multiple surgeries on his left knee, including procedures such as cartilage and meniscus transplants — rare and serious operations that cost him two full NBA seasons.
Such extensive knee surgery isn’t common in the NBA, and it led many fans and analysts to question whether Ball would ever return to his pre-injury form. The injuries robbed him of continuity, athleticism, and confidence — all critical traits for an elite starting guard.
Comeback With Chicago — A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the severity of his injuries, Ball fought back. In 2024-25, he finally returned to the court with the Bulls and was rewarded with a two-year contract extension, a vote of confidence from the organization after years of setbacks.
His performance in that season reflected the challenge of returning after long layoffs: while he managed solid contributions, he never regained a dominant role.
Trade to Cleveland & 2025-26 Season
In the summer of 2025, Lonzo was traded from the Bulls to the Cleveland Cavaliers — part of a roster move to help Cleveland reshape its lineup.
In the 2025-26 campaign, Ball struggled with efficiency, posting a career-low shooting performance while still contributing as a steady role player. Though not retired, his minutes and impact declined compared to early career expectations.
Latest: Traded, Waived & Free Agency Status
The biggest development relating to the “retirement question” came in early February 2026. Lonzo Ball was part of a three-team trade involving the Cleveland Cavaliers and Utah Jazz — but the Jazz are widely expected to waive him immediately, making Ball a free agent.
This move isn’t a retirement announcement. Instead, it’s a salary-dump decision by the Cavaliers, who needed cap flexibility after acquiring other players. However, it does fuel speculation that Ball’s NBA future is uncertain.
In other words: Ball has not officially retired, but he is currently without a team and expected to be a free agent.
Is Lonzo Ball Retiring? The Rumors vs. Reality
No Official Retirement Announced
As of early 2026:
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Lonzo has not publicly declared retirement.
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He is still listed as an NBA eligible player.
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His current status is free agent after being traded and likely waived by the Jazz.
This means that technically he hasn’t hung up his sneakers, even if his NBA career is at a crossroads.
Why People Think He Might Be Done
Several factors have led to retirement speculation:
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Consistent injury issues, especially knee problems.
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Fluctuating performance and reduced playing time.
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Being moved as a salary-dump piece — a sign teams don’t see a long-term fit.
However, none of this equates to an official retirement declaration — yet.
How Tall Is Lonzo Ball?
One of the most-asked non-retirement questions is simply: How tall is Lonzo Ball?
Official listings confirm:
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6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
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190 lbs (86 kg)
This makes him taller than many traditional point guards, giving him positional versatility on both ends of the floor.
Career Snapshot: Stats & Highlights
Across his NBA career, Lonzo Ball has played for:
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Los Angeles Lakers
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New Orleans Pelicans
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Chicago Bulls
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Cleveland Cavaliers
He has been known for:
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Elite court vision and passing
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Defensive versatility and instincts
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Leadership and high basketball IQ
Despite injuries limiting his games played, he has posted career averages that reflect strong playmaking ability when healthy — combining scoring, rebounds, and assists in balanced contributions.
The question isn’t whether he was talented — it’s whether his body allowed him to reach his potential.
What Happened to Lonzo Ball? A Timeline
Here’s a brief timeline of key moments in Lonzo’s career trajectory:
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2017 – Drafted No. 2 overall by the Lakers
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2018 – NBA All-Rookie Second Team
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2019–21 – Traded to Pelicans; solid production
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2021 – Signs with Bulls
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2022–23 – Misses two seasons due to left knee surgeries
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2024–25 – Returns, signs extension with Bulls
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Summer 2025 – Traded to Cavaliers
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February 2026 – Traded to Jazz; expected waiver; free agency
Lonzo Ball’s Legacy: More Than Just Stats
Lonzo Ball’s career will be remembered for more than raw numbers. He changed perceptions of what a modern NBA point guard could be: tall, versatile, defense-first, pass-centric. He also played through adversity most players never face.
That journey has been inspiring to many — particularly those who appreciate grit over glamour.
Lonzo Ball: Future Outlook — Can He Still Play?
While Lonzo is not retired, the looming question is will he play in the NBA again?
There are three main possibilities:
1. Another NBA Team Signs Him
Several teams with open guard roles might consider his playmaking and size — especially if they believe his knee issues are manageable.
2. Overseas or G-League Play
Many players in his situation find success internationally or in the G-League — providing a path back to the NBA or a fresh start.
3. Retirement or Career Transition
If injuries continue to limit his ability to play at a high level, Ball could choose to step away and pursue other ventures — whether broadcasting, coaching, or business.
Right now his career is in limbo, not finished.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Did Lonzo Ball retire?
No. As of 2026, Lonzo Ball has not officially retired from the NBA. However, he is expected to be waived and become a free agent.
What happened to Lonzo Ball’s NBA career?
Lonzo’s career has been significantly impacted by multiple severe knee injuries, leading to long absences and reduced performance. He has battled back but has not fully regained his early trajectory.
Is Lonzo Ball retiring soon?
There’s no official retirement announcement yet. Rumors circulate due to his free-agent status after a recent trade and league roster moves.
How tall is Lonzo Ball?
He is 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) tall and weighs approximately 190 lbs (86 kg).
What teams has Lonzo Ball played for?
Lonzo has played for the Lakers, Pelicans, Bulls, and Cavaliers in his NBA career.
Conclusion
Lonzo Ball has not retired but is at a transitional point in his career as of 2026. Injuries have altered the path many expected for a former No. 2 overall pick, yet he remains a former All-Rookie standout and still potentially playable NBA asset. While retirement speculation is rampant, the official answer remains that his career isn’t over — it’s just uncertain.
Whether Lonzo returns to the NBA or pursues other opportunities, his journey remains one of the most compelling stories in modern basketball.
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