Hornets trade star player LaMelo Ball
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Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball is being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, per multiple reports.
Why it matters: Ball has been the face of sports in Charlotte since Panthers quarterback Cam Newton left.
Zoom in: Ball and Josh Green will go to the Timberwolves in exchange for Naz Reid, plus several future NBA Draft picks:
- The 2033 first-round pick.
- First-round pick swaps in 2028, 2029 and 2030.
- Three second-round picks in 2029, 2032 and 2033.
Flashback: The Hornets drafted Ball third overall in the 2020 NBA Draft. He went on to become an All-Star and was named NBA rookie of the year.
Between the lines: NBA rules prevent the Hornets from discussing the trade at this time, team co-owner Rick Schnall told reporters at a $1 million donation announcement to Nourish Up Thursday.
- While they couldn't comment on the deal itself, Schnall did speak to the organization's evolution as a whole since they bought the team in 2023.
- "Transformation takes time," said Schnall, who along with other owners, continues to reiterate that they're building a premier NBA franchise.
- "We know that it's going to take time, and it takes tough decisions to get there, and it takes an organization that's bought in," Schnall said. "We feel like we're in a great place."
Zoom out: Off the court, the Hornets completed a $245 million renovation of Spectrum Center and they're in the midst of building a $180 million practice facility across the street.
What we're watching: The Hornets made the Play-In Tournament last season, electrifying the city along the way. Ball was a key part of that. Now it's time to see who will step up to lead the team.
- North Carolina native and former Tar Heel Coby White plans to sign a three-year deal with the team, ESPN reported.
- Forward Miles Bridges, who has been with the organization the longest, is entering the final year of his contract.
What they're saying: Hornets forwards Brandon Miller and Bridges posted tributes to Ball on their Instagram stories.
- "My brudda 5L and after yk how we rocking 🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾" -Miller
- "My brotha, My Bestfriend can't believe this real. Love gang" -Bridges
Editor's note: This is a developing story and will be updated.