Playing for Michael Jordan 'a straight blessing' – LaMelo Ball

LaMelo Ball is feeling blessed to be playing for Michael Jordan's Charlotte Hornets, despite slipping to third on draft night.

Ball, whose brother Lonzo plays for the New Orleans Pelicans, was projected by some to go as the number one pick.

But the Minnesota Timberwolves instead took Anthony Edwards, leaving Ball to go to the Hornets at three after the Golden State Warriors selected James Wiseman.

Ball, the NBL Rookie of the Year with the Illawarra Hawks, was delighted to have the opportunity to team up with NBA legend and Charlotte owner Jordan, though.

"Man, it's a straight blessing, for real," he said. "I don't really have the words to say. It's just a blessing right now."

OFFICIAL: The Hornets have selected @MELOD1P with the No. 3 pick!!! WELCOME TO BUZZ CITY LAMELO!!! pic.twitter.com/ODGLK87BJf

— Charlotte Hornets (@hornets) November 19, 2020

And Ball was not concerned by missing out on the chance to go as the top pick.

"Falling down? I never looked at it like that," he said. "The way it happens happens.

"I feel like it's God's plan, so wherever he wanted to put me, that's where he put me. He's going to let me blossom there."