LaMelo Ball Reportedly Withdraws from NBA Combine After Media Session, Interview

NBA draft prospect LaMelo Ball has withdrawn from the remainder of the combine and will not interview directly with teams, according to Jeremy Woo of Sports Illustrated.

He took part in the media session and standard league interview this week.

Unlike previous years, the NBA combine is taking place across multiple weeks with much of it via video at different locations. League interviews began Monday, and team interviews are set to run through Oct. 16.

During his media availability, Ball clarified he doesn't have a preference in the draft.

"I feel I could play on any team and do good anywhere I go, so anything that happens, I'm positive," he said Monday, per Scott Gleeson of USA Today. "Anywhere is a great fit. I mean, it's the NBA. You put me with good players, I feel like it's even gonna be better."

Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman reported Ball could go No. 1 overall if the Minnesota Timberwolves hold on to the pick.

It's not uncommon for projected top picks to skip the combine with their status relatively secure. Last year's No. 1 overall selection, Zion Williamson, sat out the combine altogether, while second pick Ja Morant only appeared for interviews.

Anthony Edwards, James Wiseman and Obi Toppin each skipped the combine this year, and all could be drafted in the top five.

It could be tougher for teams to get an accurate scouting report on Ball after just 12 games last season for the Illawarra Hawks of Australia's NBL. He impressed while averaging 17.0 points, 7.4 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game, although it will be difficult to project how that will translate to the NBA.