Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball has been slapped with a $100,000 fine by the NBA for making a “derogatory and offensive” remark during a post-game interview following his team’s loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on November 16. Ball used a term rooted in New York City slang and popularized in hip-hop culture when responding to a question about the game. He later addressed the comment after a November 17 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
The NBA announced the fine the following day through a social media post.
According to ESPN, Ball was discussing the defensive strategy his team employed to secure a narrow 115-114 win over the Bucks, specifically focusing on their efforts against Giannis Antetokounmpo. In the interview, he used the controversial language. After the Cavaliers game, Ball quickly apologized, expressing that he never intended to offend anyone.
“Before we get started, I just want to address the comment from yesterday. I didn’t mean anything by it, and I don’t want to offend anyone. I have love for everybody and don’t discriminate,” Ball stated.
Ball’s coach, Charles Lee, supported his player’s apology, stating that Ball was genuinely remorseful. He emphasized that this was an unusual incident for Ball, who is known for his positive demeanor and love for everyone in the facility. Lee also noted that they had discussed the gravity of the situation and how Ball would conduct himself moving forward.
Despite this controversy, Ball has been performing exceptionally well this season, averaging 29.6 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.3 rebounds in his fifth year in the league. He was named NBA Rookie of the Year in the 2020-21 season.
