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Despite contending with injuries, Lonzo Ball has been grabbing the spotlight lately. His positive outlook on Trae Young‘s podcast initially caught the attention of passionate fans. However, the renowned ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith also sparked a fiery response. Known for his straightforward approach, Smith did not hold back from anything. He claimed that Ball struggled with basic movements like sitting and standing up.

Smith’s remark didn’t sit well with Lonzo, prompting an epic comeback from the Chicago Bulls‘ point guard. Since then, the two have engaged in a heated exchange that appears to have taken on a personal dimension.

How did things escalate between Lonzo Ball and Smith?

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Post Ball’s appearance on Trae’s show, Stephen A Smith gave a controversial statement against the guard. He claimed,??I don?t think he?ll ever be the same? I?ve heard that it?s even hard for him to get up from the sitting position. I?m really, really sad for him.?

In an epic comeback, Lonzo shut down the rumour. He took to social media with a video showcasing him sitting down and standing up on just his left knee. He directly challenged Stephen A. Smith’s sources, asking,?“Bro, who are your sources? Tell me!”?Despite his disagreement, Ball positively opposed Smith, stating,?“I actually like you, man! And I don’t even know you like that. I’m coming back, man, come on!”

As a result of Lonzo’s video, Smith received floods of trolling messages and instances on social media. As a result, he wasn’t happy. Smith then extended the feud by commenting on Ball’s health on First Take.

Smith eventually took things to his YouTube channel. He reflected on his deep investigation of Lonzo Ball and his injuries. He even claimed to know the doctors, venues and types of surgeries Lonzo underwent in the last 2 years. ?Would you like me to tell you where you had surgery and exactly what date you had surgery?? Smith said. ?Would you like me to get the names of the doctors? I do have them. I know the actual doctors who operated on you. Actual locations. Of course, I wouldn?t do something like that to you, bro. I would never do something like that.?

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As of now, Smith has not disclosed any of the details that he claims to know about Lonzo. However, he has a point when he states that Lonzo’s ability to do sit-ups does not determine his ability to play basketball.?

Lonzo makes strong remarks despite Smith’s bold take

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Lonzo recently spoke at Invest Fest in Atlanta. It is recognized as the “world’s largest business festival,” featuring notable names from music, business, and entertainment realms. Ball engaged in the event regarding the cultural influence of Big Baller Brand and his path as a young star. However, the spotlight flashed as he addressed his NBA prospects on stage.

USA Today via Reuters

“I’m going to play again,” Ball asserted. Addressing his ongoing duel with Smith, he said, “The outside noise doesn’t bother me. The Stephen A. thing has a wide platform. And to me, I just don’t appreciate when people put out fake news like that, especially someone of his stature that can touch a lot of people.”

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Ball will be out for the season. Chicago Bulls are sanctioned for their deserved disabled-player exception. However, with monetary limits already complicating their moves, they haven’t found a way to use the additional $10 million. Regardless, the best news for Bulls fans is that Ball looks in better shape than before and is determined to make a quick comeback in the league.?