LaMelo Ball denies rumors: “I love the Hornets” and focuses on winning

LaMelo Ball Reaffirms Commitment to Hornets Despite Difficulties

The star point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, LaMelo Ball, has expressed his desire to stay with the team, despite the challenges and speculation about his future. These statements come amid a complicated season for the Hornets.

I love being here. I’m just trying to win, that’s all. That’s what we’re going to keep doing.

LaMelo Ball

The Hornets coach, Charles Lee, has also highlighted Ball’s importance to the team, considering him a fundamental piece in both offense and defense. Ball signed a maximum contract with the team in July 2023, worth $260 million. Ball’s statements come after a report suggesting the player was frustrated with the team’s results and open to a possible transfer. Ball responded to these rumors with a clown emoji on social media. The Hornets currently have a 4-11 record and haven’t made the postseason since Ball’s arrival in 2020. Ball denied having been the source of said rumors, indicating that the information was false. Coach Lee confirmed the good relationship between him and Ball, highlighting the player’s commitment to the Hornets’ project.

The season began with optimism for the Hornets, but Brandon Miller’s injury has impacted the team’s performance. Ball, for his part, has played in nine games due to a sprained ankle. In his first five seasons, Ball has played 231 of 410 games, mainly due to ankle problems. This season, he is averaging 21.6 points and 9.6 assists per game, but has struggled with his shooting percentage. Ball is under contract until the 2029-30 season, with more than $168 million remaining on his contract. Ball has expressed his confidence in the team and his determination to overcome the current challenges. The Hornets will face the LA Clippers on Saturday.