Lonzo Ball's first stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers was cut short as the team traded him to the Utah Jazz as part of a three-team deal. The Jazz eventually waived him, allowing him to become a free agent.
Ball said he understood the Cavaliers' decision to fire him, but he responded to the statement by saying he was playing terribly.
"I don't think I'm playing as bad as people are saying. I know I'm the scapegoat right now. But look, it comes with the name and it comes with what they brought me in for," Ball said on the "Ball in the Family Podcast."
"I wouldn't say I'm playing great. But for me, I'm really just missing shots. People always say, '25% shooting.' Okay, let's actually take the percentage and talk about what it is. It is a four shot game. Sh***y, but I promise we're not winning or losing games in four shots."
How's Zoe been playing lately... real breakdown 👀🔥 pic.twitter.com/uKl8G56lvH
- Ball in the Family Podcast (@ballinthefampod) 17 February 2026
The 28-year-old Ball seemed like a perfect fit for the Cavaliers when they signed him in the offseason. His unselfishness, playmaking and defense were qualities that coach Kenny Atkinson praised. But alas, it was not to be.
In 35 games for the Cavaliers, Ball averaged 4.6 points on 30.1% shooting, 4.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.3 steals in 20.8 minutes off the bench.
Ball continued, "Can I play better? Yes. Am I playing too bad? I don't think I played well."
Ball, who was the No. 2 overall pick in 2017, has struggled to find his rhythm after missing two seasons due to a knee injury.
The Golden State Warriors are reportedly interested in signing Ball.
