While LaMelo Ball is preparing for the NBA Draft, his brother is making moves by signing with a new agent ahead of the 2021 campaign.
According to ESPN’s Malika Andrews, New Orleans Pelicans star Lonzo Ball is signing with Rich Paul of Klutch Sports just three years into his young NBA career. Andrews adds that Ball considers this to be a “pivotal” offseason for his career.
“I wanted to lead my career,” Ball said. “Picking my own representation — just solely as my decision — was step one in that process. For me, it was an easy call, and it was the right time to make that call.”
Ball’s signing with Klutch Sports comes after stints with Creative Arts Agency and Roc Nation.
The 22-year-old was the second-overall pick out of UCLA in 2017. He initially played for the Los Angeles Lakers before being traded to the Pelicans in a package for Anthony Davis.
Ball had a solid first season with the Pelicans this year, averaging 11.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.0 assists per game while shooting 40.3% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range. However, he struggled greatly in the NBA’s Orlando bubble.
Ball’s teammate Brandon Ingram, who was traded alongside him to the Pelicans, had a career year during the 2019-20 campaign. He’s only hoping he can have a breakout year next season and help push the Pelicans into the playoffs.
