After missing a combined 106 games over the past two seasons due to injury, LaMelo Ball is taking proactive steps to stay on the court. The Charlotte Hornets’ star was recently spotted wearing ankle braces during an offseason practice at the team facility, a significant move for the young All-Star.
Looks like LaMelo Ball is wearing ankle braces during practice. 👀 https://t.co/mNoCC2hgrC pic.twitter.com/cZIw0QJd88
— /r/CharlotteHornets (@HornetsReddit) August 12, 2024
Ball, just 22 years old, has already shown his elite talent, earning an All-Star nod in his short NBA career. However, his potential has been repeatedly hampered by injuries, particularly to his ankles. In February 2023, Ball fractured his ankle, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. This injury followed a severe sprain to the same ankle just a few months earlier, which had already kept him out for a substantial part of the season.
Up until now, Ball had avoided wearing ankle braces, citing discomfort as the main reason. However, given his injury history and the significant investment the Hornets made in him with a recent contract extension, it appears that both Ball and the team are taking his health more seriously.
Ball’s decision to wear ankle braces is a promising sign for the Hornets as they look to keep their franchise player healthy and maximize his potential on the court. With his undeniable talent, staying injury-free could be the key to elevating both his game and the Hornets’ fortunes in the upcoming season.
