The 2021-22 NBA season began with a rule change that most fans are enjoying. It also started with a ball change for the entire league. The NBA switched from using a Spalding ball to the new Wilson brand version. Just like every change, the swap created some early controversy amongst players.
“I think the ball has changed maybe two or three times since I've been in the league. It just takes it takes some time to get used to, but you'll eventually get used to it. It's just everybody's different,” Otto Porter Jr. told ClutchPoints.
Multiple players are shooting below their average from the field and long range, including Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry to some degree. But the most notable NBA star who's having a hard time finding a rhythm is Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard. He's only shooting 34.9 percent from the field and an even worst 23.1 percent from deep. Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers recently told reporters that he believes the ball is responsible for Lillard and others' struggles shooting this season.
“It's probably just the texture and how it feels. It's like a brand new ball. The more you shoot with it, the more you break it in. I think that's the biggest thing. I rather shoot with a broken-in ball already than a brand new one,” Porter added.
As time passes, the topic of the new ball will slowly disappear. NBA players will find their groove, and the era of Wilson basketball will continue for years to come.
On Wednesday, Otto Porter Jr. and the Warriors face rising NBA star LaMelo Ball and the Charlotte Hornets. It will be their first meeting of the season as the Dubs try to improve their record to 6-1 and stay on top of the Western Conference standings.
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