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Lonzo Ball credits LaVar, LeBron James for teaching him to handle a loss

By Kenneth Teape

LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 25: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers during warm up before the game against the Washington Wizards on October 25, 2017 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - OCTOBER 25: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers during warm up before the game against the Washington Wizards on October 25, 2017 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images) /
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Los Angeles Lakers rookie Lonzo Ball credits his father, LaVar and LeBron James for teaching him to take the blame for a loss.

Lonzo Ball has had an up and down performance on the court thus far. He has been unable to find consistency with his jump shot thus far but has helped the Los Angeles Lakers in other ways.

Despite his shooting not yet coming along, Ball has done well rebounding and with his playmaking. Ball is averaging 7.5 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game.

Thus far, only reigning MVP Russell Westbrook and fellow rookie Ben Simmons are the only point guards that are averaging more rebounds per game than Ball. Ball also ranks third among rookies in rebounding, as only Lauri Markkanen and Simmons average more than him. Both Markkanen and Simmons are at least 6-feet-10 inches tall as well.

The 7.7 assists place him sixth in the NBA and lead all rookies.

Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Lakers /

Los Angeles Lakers

That is some great production as Ball has helped the Lakers despite not scoring much yet. In his first six games, Ball is averaging 10 points per game, but has scored in double-figures only once; a 29-point outburst against the Phoenix Suns.

When the Lakers used the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft on Ball, his passing skills were a big reason why. Ball makes everyone around him better. He likes to pass the ball and get teammates involved.

Another reason was the leadership qualities he displayed. Ball displayed that leadership this weekend.

After a loss to the Utah Jazz, Ball took the blame. He placed the blame on himself for two plays he made near the end of the third quarter that enabled the Jazz to extend their lead back to 11 points after the Lakers had gone on a little run.

Taking responsibility like that is something Ball says he learned from his father, LaVar Ball.

"“That is how I was brought up,” Ball said on Monday after practice. “I am not going to change. …It is a team game; we all play for each other, obviously we win and lose as a team. But I like to take the blame when we lose.”“It’s just what my dad taught me,” he added. “When I started at six, he has been coaching me the same way my whole life.”"

People have been critical of LaVar, but this is one thing they cannot get on him for. Lonzo taking responsibility for the loss shows a lot about his character and ability to lead the Lakers going forward.

A young player doing things like that is a good sign for the future. In addition to LaVar, Lonzo also said he learned from the Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James.

"“My favorite player growing up is LeBron,” Ball said. “He still plays the same way to the day. He always takes it [blame].”"

James is the leader of the Cavaliers. He is a great person to learn from for a number of reasons, and his leadership qualities being one of them.

Next: Lakers 10 Greatest Draft Picks of All-Time

Lonzo still has a long way to go before reaching his ceiling. While the Lakers are off to a 2-4 start, they have to be happy with some of the qualities he has showcased thus far. The Lakers should be in good hands with Ball leading the way.

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