Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball suffered a fractured ankle on a strange-looking play in Monday’s win over the Detroit Pistons.
The point guard went behind the back with the ball on a defender and stepped back, possibly eyeing a three-pointer. But when Ball planted his right leg, it collapsed and he fell, immediately grabbing his leg.
The Hornets reported he had a fractured right ankle.
Ball averaged just over 23 points and 8 assists per game this season, but just like that, his third season in Charlotte is almost certainly finished. Before he fractured his ankle, Ball sprained his left ankle multiple times this season.
You don’t need to be a basketball Nostradamus to instinctively know that Ball is counting the days until his rookie contract expires and he can take off in free agency for a contender in a major market (hello, Los Angeles Lakers), where his flashy game and likable personality could make him a megastar.
NBA fans turned to Twitter to share their views on Ball’s misfortune.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.