LaMelo Ball committed a hard foul on Bam Adebayo in the second quarter of the Charlotte Hornets’ first play-in game against the Miami Heat on March 14. The NBA has decided to review the foul once again to see if Ball intended to make Adebayo fall in that moment. If approved, it might lead to suspension or other forms of punishment for the Hornets guard.
Adebayo was sidelined as he took a fall on his hips after playing just 11 minutes in the game. Insider Chris Haynes shared the possibility on X and wrote:
“Sources: NBA to review Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball for taking out ankle of Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo in 2nd Q, resulting in hard spill and back injury that cost him rest of crucial do-or-die play-in contest. Ruling expected before Hornets’ final play-in bout on Friday.”
The incident occurred in the second period when Ball made a baseline play and tried to drain a floater above Adebayo, but got rejected by Simone Fontecchio. That led the ball to Adebayo’s hands, who tried to save it while falling out of bounds. The Hornets’ PG, on the other hand, was lying down, but seemingly tried to trip the Heat forward by grabbing and pulling his ankle. The league has now launched an investigation into it, but no information has been made public.
LaMelo Ball was instrumental in the Hornets’ win against the Heat. He scored 30 points, five rebounds, and 10 assists in 40 minutes and snatched the win away after the game went into overtime.
“I think it’s a stupid play,” Heat head coach speaks about LaMelo Ball incident
The Heat was in decent form in the last phase of the regular season, winning three of the last five. However, that didn’t translate to the play-ins. Moreover, their superstar Bam Adebayo was injured due to Ball’s interference with his motion on a play. Heat HC Eric Spoelstra was also asked bout the play.
The head coach said, via Bleacher Report:
“I think it’s a stupid play, it’s a dangerous play, obviously, our best player was out. I am not making excuses. Look, the Hornets played great, you know. And they made those plays down the stretch; we had opportunities to win. That’s a shame, he should be penalized for that, I don’t think that belongs in the game.”
The Hornets have now moved to their second play-in game, where they will meet the losers of the Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers matchup. The team looked in sync and ready to etch their names in one of the last two spots before the playoffs.
READ MORE: Could Anthony Davis Return To Lakers? Possibilities Explored As He Eyes Championship Aspirations
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in NBA, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
