May 4, 2024
Ball (knee) informed the Bulls on Saturday that he will exercise his $21.4 million player option for 2024-25,
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Given that Ball's last appearance in the NBA came all the way back on Jan. 14, 2022, his decision to exercise his player option was fully expected. Currently in the midst of his lengthy rehab program for a third surgery on his left knee, Ball remains hopeful to resume his playing career in 2024-25, but the 26-year-old still has significant hurdles to clear in the recovery process before a potential return date will come into focus. Ball resumed running in March, and if can continue to make progress over the offseason, he may be ready to take contact and take part in 5-on-5 drills when training camp begins in October.