Lonzo Ball and Zion Williamson, despite playing less than 20 games together, have developed a chemistry that is rarely ever seen between two long-time teammates, let alone two first-year teammates. The surest sign of that chemistry has been the connection the two have shown on alley-oops this season from both near and far distances.
On Monday, Ball appeared on teammate JJ Redick’s podcast with The Ringer where the two discussed what goes through Ball’s mind as he throws full-court alley-oop passes to Williamson.
“It looks good but I really just aim for the corner of the backboard, really. I mean, as you know, Zion’s probably going to catch it no matter where you throw it. So, for me, I really just try to get it over the defender because I know (Zion’s) going to get higher than him. As long as I do that, it’s going to work out.”
Ball’s skill as one of the best passers in the NBA paired with Williamson’s unmatched size and athleticism has led to many a long-range connection. However, just as impressive has been some of the closer alley-oops.
Williamson has made a habit of using his size and the attention defenses place on him to counter with alley-oops spinning out of a post-up situation. While a much closer pass, the timing is far more important in these passes and Ball and Williamson have been just as on-point in those scenarios as well.
However, Ball revealed he and Williamson haven’t talked about the play and typically use non-verbal cues to connect on the court.
“It’s really Z, to be honest. He gives me that look like ‘I’m about to spin out’ because you know how strong he is. It’s odd being that heavy at that size. Once he gets you at a certain angle, you’re not going to get back in front of him. Z kind of gives me the little sign and he ends up spinning out and the ball is there.”
Overall, Ball and Williamson have quickly adapted to one another on the court to develop instant chemistry.
“It’s really just natural. Z is a different type of talent. I’ve never really played with a guy like him before. He complements my game tremendously and I’m just happy to be with him.”
Ball and Williamson have helped the Pelicans excel on the court as they made a run at the playoffs and eighth seed prior to the league’s suspension. Whether the league resumes the regular season this year or in future seasons, the Pelicans have a budding partnership that is only getting better with time.