Lonzo Ball shares his most difficult challenge about entering NBA

Lonzo Ball is now in his third NBA season after being drafted No. 2 overall in 2017, and he was progressing in his first season with the New Orleans Pelicans until the league went on hiatus.

The 22-year-old point guard joined his Pelicans teammate, JJ Redick, on “The JJ Redick Podcast” for a recent interview and talked numerous subjects, including his adjustment to the league.

“I think the hardest adjustment is the schedule, really. People don’t understand how many games you play in the league. Everyone’s watching you every night, especially playing for the Lakers being the No. 2 pick. I think that was the biggest part. Just playing and flying, playing and flying. Just getting adjusted to the season.”

Ball was heavily hyped entering the league, largely due to his big-mouthed father, LaVar. He says he was used to the extra attention going back to high school and good at blocking out the noise. He credited his family for helping him stay focused.

Interestingly, Ball also told Redick that he doesn’t have an issue with coaches being tough and yelling because he was used to that style growing up.

Ball was averaging 12.4 points, 6.2 rebounds and 7.0 assists per game this season. His 41.2 percent from the field was the best of his career. He’s showing improvement and has blossomed in his first season with the Pelicans.