LaMelo Ball Responds To $100K NBA Fine For Offensive Comment

Photo: LaMelo Ball / Instagram 

Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball has spoken out after being fined $100,000 by the NBA for using an anti-gay slur. The fine came after Ball’s postgame comments Saturday on FanDuel Sports Network following the Hornets’ 115-114 win over the Milwaukee Bucks.

When asked about the team’s defensive strategy against Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, Ball made the comment that led to the league’s punishment.

On Sunday night, after the Hornets’ 128-114 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Ball addressed the issue.

Photo: LaMelo Ball / Instagram 

“Before we get started, I just want to address the comment yesterday,” Ball said. “I really didn’t mean anything by it and don’t want to offend anybody. I’ve got love for everybody, and I don’t discriminate.”

Hornets head coach Charles Lee said Ball had apologized and was committed to learning from the incident.

“Our standards and what is required of our players are really important to us,” Lee said. “Melo has been very apologetic. From my time with him, he’s been a joy to have around and treats everyone with respect. This was out of character for him.”

Lee added that Ball assured him he would be more mindful in the future.

Ball scored 31 points and added 12 assists in the loss to Cleveland. Despite the controversy, he has been performing at a high level this season, averaging 29.6 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.3 rebounds.

Ball was named Rookie of the Year in 2021 and became an All-Star the following season. Source


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