LaMelo Ball’s interview with the Minnesota Timberwolves ahead of the 2020 NBA Draft apparently played a significant role in pushing the organization toward selecting Anthony Edwards with the No. 1 pick instead, according to Sam Jane of The Athletic.
Jane cites a story shared by his colleague Jon Krawczynski, who recalled a memorable moment from Ball’s interview during an appearance on Zach Lowe’s podcast.
Krawczynski explained that during the team’s pre-draft meetings, the Timberwolves asked Ball about his long-term ambitions once his playing days ended.
“One of the questions that was asked of him was: ‘Hey, LaMelo, after you’re done playing, what do you see yourself doing when your career is over? What kind of things do you aspire to?’ And LaMelo said, ‘I want to be president of the United States,’” the journalist stated.
According to Krawczynski, the response left some within the organization uncertain how seriously Ball meant it, or whether he was simply uninterested in the interview process.
The unusual answer didn’t necessarily disqualify Ball as a prospect, but, as Krawczynski described, “it helped to make the decision clearer” as the Timberwolves evaluated their options with the top pick.
Minnesota ultimately selected Edwards at No. 1, while Ball was taken third overall by Charlotte, where he went on to become Rookie of the Year and an All-Star.
Northwest Notes: Mitchell, Ball, Trail Blazers, Adelman https://t.co/V9OPuFHVP3 pic.twitter.com/9shdLNyDcP
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