Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) moves the ball against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels during the second half of an NBA basketball game (Credit: AP)
The Minnesota Timberwolves made an unexpected choice on their selection for the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft during the pre-draft phase. LaMelo Ball’s sudden desire to become president of the United States was one of the reasons the Timberwolves chose Anthony Edwards over Ball.
LaMelo Ball’s AspirationsThis information came to light during a recent podcast in which The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski discussed the Timberwolves’ evaluation procedure. In an interview with LaMelo Ball, Krawczynski clarified, team representatives asked him about his post-basketball goals. Ball’s response, stating, “I want to be President of the United States,” did not resonate well with the Timberwolves’ management.
Krawczynski noted, “LaMelo did not interview very well. One of the reasons they chose Edwards was his overall fit and approach to the game, which contrasted with Ball’s lofty ambitions.”
Timberwolves’ Decision ProcessInterviewing prospective draft picks allowed the Timberwolves to consider a wide range of considerations before reaching a decision. The Timberwolves saw Ball’s ambition negatively, even though it could be seen as an indication of lofty goals. The squad wanted to choose a player who showed a strong commitment to basketball over political ambitions.
LaMelo Ball has a bright future in the NBA despite this setback. He is only 22 years old, but he has already made a lot of progress in the league and is still a gifted player who might do very well.
The Timberwolves’ decision to select Anthony Edwards in the draft might ultimately affect both players’ futures as LaMelo Ball continues to hone his skills on the floor. Ball still has plenty of time to pursue his basketball and other aspirations, even though the Timberwolves’ choice may have been impacted by his desire to become president. LaMelo Ball, who aspires to be great, wants to inspire future generations with his goals in addition to making an impact in the NBA.