From nbl.com.au :
NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger has made the following statement on LaMelo Ball after it was announced he will miss the rest of the season as he recovers from injury.
“It’s a shame for LaMelo as I’m sure he would have loved to join his team out there for the end of the season, especially as they have found some winning form of late.
“It’s important that he makes a return to full fitness ahead of the NBA draft and we will do everything we can to support that and his aim to become the number one pick.
“Despite his latest injury setback, LaMelo has enjoyed an excellent season and there is no doubt his draft prospects have been firmly enhanced by his time playing in the NBL.
“He has averaged 17 points, seven rebounds and seven assists this season. He had consecutive triple doubles in his last two games and is the youngest NBL player to achieve such a feat.
“The aim of the NBL’s Next Stars program is to help prepare players for the NBA by playing in a professional and highly competitive league. LaMelo and the other Next Stars players have benefited from this and he is now ready to embark on a successful career in the NBA.
“Illawarra coach Matt Flinn has also commented on how much he has enjoyed coaching LaMelo and he has impressed everyone with his professionalism. He has attracted huge crowds wherever he’s played and recently donated a month of his salary to bushfire relief.”
