Lonzo begins advanced non-contact drills

Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball has begun to participate in non-contact activities, including sprinting and jumping, head coach Billy Donovan said Saturday, according to K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago.

"Some of the workouts have been really, really positive, and he has progressed," said Donovan. "He has responded well. Some of the things that medical guys have shown me is he looks good moving. I'm just really happy for him, personally, for his progress. He has worked hard to put himself in this position. And, hopefully, he can continue to progress."

Ball has missed over two years due to the knee injury he suffered in January 2022. The 26-year-old has undergone three surgeries since, including a cartilage transplant.

Ball's next steps are to be cleared for contact and five-on-five basketball, but no timeline is in place, according to Donovan.

"This is something that is almost unprecedented," Donovan said. "He has been able to pass every hurdle so far."

Ball has a player option for next season as part of the four-year, $80-million contract he signed with the Bulls in 2021. He's averaged 11.9 points, 6.2 assists, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals over five seasons in the NBA.