Lonzo Ball addressed the media during the 2025 Cavaliers Media Day, opening up about his transition to Cleveland following the trade from Chicago.
On Cleveland, Ball noted, “I like Cleveland. I keep joking with the guys. I didn’t even know Cleveland had water. It’s been nice getting out of the house. The weather’s been good. Food’s been good. People are great, and I have no complaints.”
Ball confirmed he is fully healthy and ready for the season. “I feel great. I’ll be fine, full goal. Been doing everything with the team, no setbacks. Looking to get training camp going, preseason, then right into game one.”
Asked about his role in the team’s championship ambitions, Ball said, “I wouldn’t say missing piece. I’m here to help win the championship, do my part, and be a good teammate.”
On building chemistry with the roster, he added, “It helps that I already knew a couple of the guys. Everybody here has been cool, welcoming me with open arms. As long as we play for one another, we’ll be fine.”
Ball reflected on the Cavaliers’ previous season: “Injuries messed them up. They had one of the better starts and were playing tremendous basketball. At the end, you hope for the best, but injuries definitely set them back.”
Discussing his excitement to play alongside Donovan Mitchell and other stars, Ball said, “There’s a lot of talent on this team. I’m here to just play my part and do what I can.”
On fame, Ball stated, “Being famous hasn’t changed me. It probably started in high school. About to be 28 next month, so it’s been going.”
Ball outlined his personal focus areas: “Play defense, hit open shots, and don’t turn the ball over. That’s my three main points going into training camp.”
He praised the Cavaliers’ work environment: “You can tell people come here and don’t dread practice. It’s always nice to be around people that love what they’re doing. No complaints, easy, free-flowing, and I’m happy to be here.”
Ball also shared his perspective on Kenny Atkinson’s offense: “The offense is free-flowing. He gives a lot of freedom to players. My role is hit open shots, push the pace, and make sure people are in the right spots.”
Finally, on legacy, Ball said, “Legacy depends on when you look back at your life and in the mirror, if you’re happy with yourself, that’s what really matters.”
Ball joins the Cavaliers after being traded on July 6 in exchange for Isaac Okoro.
