The road to the NBA has been quite the rollercoaster for LiAngelo Ball. Despite a tumultuous road traveled, LiAngelo has persevered and kept his eyes on the NBA prize.
In his first stint with the Greensboro Swarm, LiAngelo put up very modest numbers in limited action. In 28 games, he averaged 4.6 points, 1.1 rebounds, 0.3 assists, in 13.2 minutes.
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Per 36 minutes, those numbers aren’t nearly as pedestrian, but there are other areas LiAngelo must improve upon should he expect to receive a larger role, as well as a potential shot at the big leagues.
This summer, LiAngelo made his Drew League debut with team Big Baller Brand. LaVar initially started LiAngelo at the point guard spot (for reasons I still don’t understand), and LiAngelo’s scoring numbers dwindled drastically. However, after some adjustments, and playing LiAngelo in his more natural shooting guard role, he did what he does best, which is score, and exploded for a 52-point virtuoso performance.
Related: Watch: Liangelo Ball impresses with 52-point explosion
Additionally, he joined the Swarm for summer league action and had a few moments of promise. In his second game after coming off COVID, LiAngelo poured in 12 points in 12 minutes.
I believe this is a make or break year for LiAngelo in the G-League. It is imperative he shows his worth or he’ll need to take his talents overseas, or hang it up for good.
I personally was encouraged by his size, and improvement with the ball in his hands. In the Drew League, he looked like a pro. He moved like a pro, and 52 points is nothing to sneeze at, no matter the setting.
I expect the Swarm to give LiAngelo a true shot to make a mark as to not hold up such a high notoriety player. No one wants to answer questions about a player with millions of followers riding the bench. I believe this has been communicated to LiAngelo’s team, which is the reason for the work he’s put in this offseason.
LiAngelo will sink or swim this year, but he has to have an opportunity for either scenario.
