What Happened to LaMelo Ball? Details on Hornets Star’s Horrifying Injury Scare vs Magic

Despite being one of the lower-ranked teams in their conference, the Charlotte Hornets are determined to secure a playoff spot this season. As they faced off against the Orlando Magic, the team displayed just the right spirit. Led by LaMelo Ball, this game also marked the return of Terry Rozier, who had missed the previous 9 games due to a groin strain. On the flip side, the Magic entered the game with momentum from their 6-game winning streak.

The Hornets kicked off with a strong first quarter; outscoring Orlando 33-25. However, in the second quarter, the Hornets faced a setback. What was meant to be a welcome-back celebration for Rozier took an unexpected turn as LaMelo Ball was seen escorted off the court.

What happened to LaMelo Ball?

The Hornets report that LaMelo Ball suffered an ankle sprain in the game against the Orlando Magic. While the extent of his injury is not yet disclosed, he has been ruled out of the ongoing game. During the second quarter, Ball got entangled with Paolo Banchero after a drive to the basket. As Banchero contested the shot, Ball landed awkwardly; leaving him unable to bear any weight on his leg. At the time of his exit, Ball had contributed 7 points, 2 assists, and 1 rebound in 14 minutes of action.

Entering the game, Ball was averaging 25.9 points and 8.6 assists. Throughout the 2023 season, Ball is shooting 44.2% from the field while converting 38.9% of his three-point shots.

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But how did the Hornets fare without their All-Star guard?

Hornets feel Ball’s absence right away

Despite three Hornets players reaching the 20-point mark, the absence of LaMelo Ball was immediately noticeable. Although they led in the first quarter, the Hornets quickly faltered, scoring only 24 points in the second quarter to round out the half. Seizing the opportunity, Franz Wagner and Cole Anthony both notched impressive performances, each scoring 30 points. Anthony, in particular, exploded in the fourth quarter, contributing 17 points to secure a 130-117 victory.

On the Hornets’ side, Miles Bridges achieved a double-double with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Terry Rozier narrowly missed a double-double with 20 points and 9 assists, while Brandon Miller added another 20 points to the scoreboard.

Hornets were more efficient in field goals and three-point shooting than the Magic. However, Orlando’s roster was resolute in crashing on the board and distributing the ball on offense. Furthermore, with consistent pressure on the defensive end, they took every chance they could get to attack the basket; outscoring the Hornets in the paint, 74 to 58.

Do you think LaMelo’s injury will hamper the Hornets’ already slim playoff chances? Let us know in the comments.

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