1 Player Refuses To Come To Hornets Because He Hates LaMelo Ball
1 Player Refuses To Come To Hornets Because He Hates LaMelo Ball
A significant development has emerged in the lead-up to the 2025 NBA Draft, as reports indicate that at least one lottery-projected prospect has declined to participate in workouts with the Charlotte Hornets. This decision reportedly stems from the player’s reluctance to join a team led by LaMelo Ball.
The Hornets currently hold the No. 4 overall selection in the upcoming draft, following their disappointing 19-63 record in the 2024-25 season. Despite finishing with the third-worst record in the league, Charlotte slightly underperformed in the draft lottery positioning.
LaMelo Ball, 23, has established himself as the centerpiece of the Hornets franchise since his arrival. His statistical output has been impressive, with averages of 25.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game during the 2024-25 campaign. Ball is poised to enter his sixth NBA season in 2025-26.
However, several factors may be influencing prospects’ hesitation about joining Ball in Charlotte:
- Ball-dominant playing style: Ball averaged 21.3 shot attempts per game last season
- High volume shooting: Attempted 11.2 three-pointers per game
- Availability concerns: Has played 50 or fewer games in three consecutive seasons
- Leadership questions: Some criticism regarding his on and off-court approach
The unnamed draft prospect’s decision highlights potential concerns about fit alongside Ball’s playing style and the Hornets’ overall team direction. This situation presents a challenge for Charlotte’s front office as they attempt to build a competitive roster in the Eastern Conference.
While the specific identity of the prospect remains undisclosed, this development could impact Charlotte’s draft strategy. The Hornets must evaluate whether to select the best available talent regardless of fit concerns or prioritize prospects who view playing alongside Ball favorably.
For a franchise that has struggled to make playoff appearances in recent years, this draft represents a crucial opportunity to add complementary talent around their star point guard and potentially shift their competitive trajectory.
A longtime sports reporter, Carlos Garcia has written about some of the biggest and most notable athletic events of the last 5 years. He has been credentialed to cover MLS, NBA and MLB games all over the United States. His work has been published on Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, AOL and the Washington Post.
