The Charlotte Hornets secured a narrow 115-114 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday at Spectrum Center, improving their record to 5-7. While the win was a joyous moment for the team, it was overshadowed by controversy surrounding their star player, LaMelo Ball.
During a post-game sideline interview, Ball used an anti-gay phrase while discussing his team’s defensive strategy on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s final shot.
“We loaded up – no homo. But that’s what we wanted; we put a hand up and lived with the result,” Ball said.
The NBA wasted no time addressing the situation. On Sunday, Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations, announced that Ball had been fined $100,000 for his comment. The league described the remark as “offensive and derogatory.”
The fine represents the maximum penalty allowed under NBA rules. The punishment proves the NBA’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment on and off the court.
Hornets Coach Responds to LaMelo Ball’s Controversial Remark
Hornets coach Charles Lee addressed the situation during his postgame press conference. He clarified that the organization holds its players to high standards. Despite the criticism, the coach also defended Ball’s character.
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“As an organization, that is obviously not something we condone. Our standards and what is required of our players in the environment we create is really important to us,” Lee said.
“From what I’ve seen since I’ve been around him, he loves everyone. He’s a joy to have around in the facility, and that’s not typically how he operates,” he added.
In the game against the Bucks, Ball scored 26 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. The Hornets star is averaging 29.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.2 for the Hornets.
