The Charlotte Hornets’ playoff chances received yet another setback following a close defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers. However, the Hornets exited the court with an added blow to their personnel following LaMello Ball‘s mid-game injury. But what actually happened to Charlotte’s 23-year-old talisman?
Here’s everything you need to know regarding Ball’s latest ailment.
How did LaMello Ball get injured?
LaMello Ball sustained an ankle injury in the Lakers’ 107-112 victory vs the Hornets.
The unfortunate incident occurred in the second quarter of the said match. After heroically scoring a 3-pointer while standing on one foot, an elevated Ball began to back-peddle down the court, unaware of his surroundings. As such, he inadvertently stepped on Jarred Vanderbilt’s foot and fell with back his to the ground, awkwardly hitting his head in the process.
Assessing that he had suffered an injury in his left ankle, LaMello Ball committed an intentional foul to disrupt the game and voluntarily retreated to his locker room after playing for just nine minutes. His limping walk made it clear that Ball was in pain. However, the Hornets soon confirmed via social media that their promising point guard will not be returning to the game.
Prior to his injury-forced exit, LaMello Ball tried his best to get his side on the top, scoring seven points. Ball has, in general, been the lone shining light for the Hornets in an otherwise horrid season. While Charlotte has only managed to maintain a 12-31 record this campaign, LaMello Ball has averaged 28.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game, leading his side in almost every relevant statistic.
Notably, LaMello Ball has experienced his fair share of ankle injury struggles ever since he signed for the Hornets. As such, he had been wearing braces this term to safeguard his ankle. Nonetheless, his latest hit is expected to keep the promising athlete sidelined for at least a few upcoming games.
In Ball’s absence, the Charlotte Hornets will be taking on the Brooklyn Nets in their next NBA fixture.
