Cavs’ Ball and Nance Reunite, Sparking Hope for Championship Run

CLEVELAND, Ohio — During the season opener at Madison Square Garden, guard Lonzo Ball connected with big man Larry Nance Jr. for a perfectly placed lob pass. Nance threw it down, helping the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 10-0 run, and prompting sidelined star Donovan Mitchell to rise from his seat in excitement. This moment came exactly eight years after their first alley-oop connection at the then-Staples Center.

Ball described reuniting with Nance as a blessing. Both players have faced challenges, with Ball battling knee injuries that kept him out for over two seasons. The two seasoned veterans are now acclimating to their roles with the Cavs, who stand at 3-1 as they prepare for Wednesday’s game against the Brooklyn Nets.

Nance, a native of Akron, acknowledged the difference in tempo and style since their early days. “It’s like a full-circle moment,” Ball said. “He’s seen me when I was getting my feet wet in the league, and now, eight years later, we’re both here for the same reason.”

Cavaliers President Koby Altman made roster changes last season to enhance the team’s mental toughness. After an early playoff exit, Altman decided not to move any starters but traded for Ball, while Nance joined as a free agent. Both players specialize in making game-impacting plays, which is crucial for the Cavs’ strategy this season.

Nance expressed confidence in the team’s capability, stating, “We have guys that can put up 30 on any given night. I think it’s great that we brought in the kind of guys in me and Zo that want to help them be themselves.” Ball will likely not score as much as former teammate Rui Hachimura, but he brings defensive versatility and pace, able to create opportunities for his teammates.

Despite Nance’s less flashy playstyle, his impact is significant. Ball enjoys playing with him, noting, “He just wants to help the team, and he don’t care if he’s scoring or not. We appreciate him for that.”

In training camp, rookie guard Jaden Proctor admired Ball’s quick transition creativity. “When he checks in the game, he completely changes the tempo of the game,” teammate Dwayne Wade said, acknowledging Ball’s dynamic influence.

The season is still starting, but the Cavaliers are already testing different rotations. Coach Kenny Atkinson stated there is much to discover with the team, as they analyze the contributions of Ball and Nance alongside key players like Evan Mobley and others.

Nance, who grew up as a Cavaliers fan, has always been committed to the team. “You can see the level of growth and maturity as players and people,” he noted, reflecting on their journey from Los Angeles to Cleveland.

Both players are clear about their goal this season: winning a championship. “It’s black and white now,” Ball said. “The Cleveland Cavaliers are playing for a ring. Everybody knows that.”