Former Next Star, Boomer join forces in Minnesota

Former NBL Next Star LaMelo Ball and Australian guard Josh Green are heading to the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of a blockbuster four-team trade.

The Timberwolves acquired both players from the Charlotte Hornets, giving the pair an opportunity to begin the next chapters of their careers together in Minnesota.

Ball arrives after six seasons with Charlotte, where he developed into one of the NBA’s brightest young stars after being selected with the third overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Before making his mark in the NBA, the 24-year-old began his professional career with the Illawarra Hawks through the NBL Next Stars program in the 2019-20 season.

Ball quickly emerged as one of basketball’s most highly touted prospects, averaging 17.0 points, 7.6 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game during his time in the NBL.

Green also joins the Timberwolves after spending the past two seasons with Charlotte. The Australian was selected with the 18th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft and previously spent four seasons with the Dallas Mavericks.

The 25-year-old has also become an important member of the Australian Boomers, representing his country at the Tokyo and Paris Olympic Games.

Ball and Green will now look to make an impact in Minnesota as the Timberwolves continue building on their recent success in the Western Conference.