Cleveland Cavaliers guard Lonzo Ball confirmed that back-to-back games are “off the table” for him at the start of the 2025 season. He expects to play around 20 minutes per night as he gradually integrates into the lineup.
Ball described his transition to Cleveland as “smooth,” noting that training camp has been structured to keep things simple. “I think we’re all on the same page early on, which helps a lot,” he said, adding that he has been shooting threes, running the break, and doing what he normally does on the court.
The 27-year-old emphasized his role remains consistent: play defense, push the pace, hit open shots, and avoid turnovers. “I’ve been playing basketball a long time. I haven’t really changed my game at all,” Ball explained.
He praised the Cavaliers’ coaching approach under Kenny Atkinson, highlighting communication and structured practice plans. “They tell us the plan ahead of time. The film sessions have been great. It’s been a lot of dialogue back and forth,” Ball said.
Ball stressed the importance of defense and pace as guiding principles for the team. “We want to play all the way until the last two people are standing. We know it’s a long journey ahead,” he said, noting that building a strong foundation during the regular season is key to postseason success.
The veteran guard also spoke about mentoring younger players like Tyrese Proctor and Craig Porter Jr., praising their energy and willingness to learn. “My advice to them is just keep playing hard and act like a sponge out here,” he said.
Ball has a history of managing minutes carefully after returning from injury. He was cleared for full-contact scrimmages in July 2024 and made his first appearance since January 2022 during the 2024–25 preseason. He later signed a two-year, $20 million extension with the Bulls before being traded to the Cavaliers in July 2025 in exchange for Isaac Okoro.
