Hornets G LaMelo Ball (ankle) exits game vs. Lakers

Field Level Media|published: Mon 27th January, 20:42 2025

NBA: New Orleans Pelicans at Charlotte Hornets

Jan 25, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) reacts during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball sprained his left ankle in the second quarter of a meeting with the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night.

Ball got hurt after knocking down a 3-pointer with 8:47 remaining in the first half. He was backpedaling following the make when he stepped on Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt's foot, causing him to roll his ankle.

The Hornets later announced that Ball was done for the game.

Prior to his departure, Ball had seven points and one assist in nine minutes of action.

Injuries have constantly plagued the 23-year-old Ball throughout his five-year NBA career. He played just 22 games (all starts) last season and entered Monday with averages of 28.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 7.5 assists across 30 games (all starts) in 2024-25.

--Field Level Media