The Big Lead

Lonzo Ball hosts family of man who donated knee cartilage for transplant surgery

In an incredible gesture, the Chicago Bulls star invites the family of the donor who helped save his basketball career to a game.

By Tyler Reed

Chicago Bulls forward Lonzo Ball hits a three point shot against Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead during overtime at the United Center.
Chicago Bulls forward Lonzo Ball hits a three point shot against Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead during overtime at the United Center. / Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
facebooktwitter

Lonzo Ball has had a long road to get back to the game that he loves. The Chicago Bulls star returned to action this season for the first time since 2022.

For a moment, it seemed that knee injuries would keep Ball from ever getting the chance to return to the court. However, a transplant surgery gave him a second chance to play the game.

RELATED: Luka Doncic gets real about emotional Dallas return

Two years ago, Ball had a knee transplant surgery that has now given him the opportunity to play basketball once again.

Ball has not forgotten what the procedure has done for him, and recently, he wanted to return the favor to the family that helped him.

Ball invited the family of Alex Reinhardt, who was the donor for Ball's knee transplant surgery, to a game.

Reinhardt passed in February of 2020; however, thanks to the selflessness of Reinhardt, Ball was able to find a donor to help with his vital surgery.

Ball got the chance to meet Reinhardt's family at a Bulls game. During the visit, the Bulls star got a chance to speak with the family and snap a few photos.

The journey back to playing in the NBA for Ball is one of the triumphant stories in the history of sports. However, the former second overall pick is never going to forget the person who helped him get there.

MORE TOP STORIES from The Big Lead

NBA: Mavs fans erupt in 'Fire Nico' chant after Luka Doncic's Dallas homecoming

CBB: Brayden Burries commits to Arizona, cements Wildcats as preseason title favorites

MLB: Pirates' 'Bucco Bricks' debacle the latest sign they're MLB's most incompetent team

NFL: Dolphins release statement after police respond to Tyreek Hill domestic incident

SPORTS MEDIA: Masters voice Jim Nantz turned down surprising CBS television job in 2004

VIRAL: Jordan Spieth's kids Sammy & Sophie steal show at Masters Par 3 Contest

Home/NBA