Report: LaMelo Ball withdraws from 2020 NBA Draft Combine

Kyle Irving

Report: LaMelo Ball withdraws from 2020 NBA Draft Combine image

2020 NBA Draft prospect LaMelo Ball has withdrawn from the NBA Draft Combine, according to Sports Illustrated's Jeremy Woo.

The 2020 Draft Combine is different than in the past due to coronavirus restrictions. Taking place over the course of a couple weeks through video workouts and interviews as opposed to the traditional one week, one location combine, it should present a different look for players, executives, coaches and scouts.

Ball went through his combine media availability earlier this week, but will not interview with teams directly, according to Woo's report.

MORE: Ball: 'I feel like I can play for any team'

In his combine interview with the media, Ball stated, "Ever since I was little, when I'd do little projects and stuff, that was one my goals – to go to the NBA and be the No. 1 pick."

"I feel positive anywhere I go. I feel I can make a good impact wherever I go," he said.

Whether or not his decision to withdraw from the combine means that Ball received a guarantee from a team remains unknown.

MORE: How does Ball fit in with each team that has a top-five pick?

It's not uncommon for players to withdraw from the NBA Combine. Other projected top picks Anthony Edwards, James Wiseman and Obi Toppin skipped the combine altogether.

The 2019 NBA Draft's No. 2 overall pick and reigning Rookie of the Year Ja Morant took a similar approach as Ball did, declaring for the combine, doing his league and media interviews, then withdrawing from the combine. Things turned out just fine for him.

We may have to wait until closer to draft day on Nov. 18 (Eastern Time) to see how this decision will pan out for Ball.

The views on this page do not necessarily represent the views of the NBA or its clubs.

Kyle Irving

Kyle Irving Photo

You read that wrong – not Kyrie Irving. From Boston, graduated from the University of New Hampshire. Sixth season as a content producer for NBA.com's Global editions. Covering the NBA Draft has become his annual "dream come true" moment on the job. Irving has a soft spot for pass-first point guards, with Rajon Rondo and Steve Nash being two of his favorite players of all time.