Timberwolves' LaMelo Ball trade makes old pre-draft story impossible to ignore

Six years after deciding to draft Anthony Edwards over LaMelo Ball, the Minnesota Timberwolves have finally landed the point guard they once passed on. Minnesota stunned the NBA on Thursday by acquiring Ball from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Naz Reid, an unprotected 2033 first-round pick, three first-round pick swaps and three second-round picks. The blockbuster reunites one of the league's most talented passers with a Timberwolves franchise that famously had the opportunity to draft him in 2020.

As fans reacted to the surprising deal, one old story from Ball's draft process immediately resurfaced.

The interview that reportedly changed everything

Years ago, Timberwolves insider Jon Krawczynski shared an anecdote that has since become one of the more memorable stories from the 2020 NBA Draft process. According to Krawczynski, Minnesota's front office asked Ball where he saw himself after his basketball career.

His answer?

"I want to be President of the United States."

While there's nothing inherently wrong with having lofty ambitions, Krawczynski said the response contributed to concerns during Ball's pre-draft interview process.

"So, we know they picked Edwards," Krawczynski said. "But that's not my little nugget for you all. It's why they picked Edwards."

He continued by explaining that Minnesota had multiple reasons for selecting Edwards, but Ball's interview left an impression.

"One of the questions they asked him was: 'Hey LaMelo, after you're done playing, what do you see yourself doing? What kind of things do you aspire to?' And LaMelo said: 'I want to be President of the United States.'"

Whether that answer was serious, tongue-in-cheek or simply an off-the-cuff response has never been fully clarified. Regardless, the story has lived on among NBA fans ever since.

Six years later, Ball finally lands in Minnesota

At the time, the Timberwolves chose Edwards with the No. 1 overall pick while the Charlotte Hornets selected Ball one pick later. The decision has worked out well for Minnesota. Edwards has developed into one of the NBA's premier young superstars and has led the Timberwolves on multiple deep playoff runs.

Ironically, Ball is now joining Edwards rather than competing against the player he was drafted behind. The timing of the move is notable, too. Reports earlier this week suggested Edwards had grown frustrated with Minnesota's roster following a series of offseason moves, fueling speculation about his long-term future. The acquisition of Ball gives the Timberwolves another All-Star caliber playmaker and signals the organization remains committed to building a contender around its franchise centerpiece.

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A fascinating new chapter begins

Ball arrives in Minnesota after spending six seasons in Charlotte, where flashes of brilliance were often interrupted by injuries. When healthy, he's one of the NBA's most creative passers and an elite playmaker capable of transforming an offense. Questions about consistency, shot selection and defense have followed him throughout his career, but there's little doubt about his talent.

Now, the same franchise that reportedly questioned one of his pre-draft answers has decided he's worth a massive trade package. What once seemed like a draft-day "what if" has officially become reality.

And with Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball now sharing the same backcourt, one of the NBA's most fascinating storylines just came full circle.

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