From 2022 to 2023, LaMelo Ball and Dennis Smith Jr. were teammates with the Charlotte Hornets. Though they only played together briefly, Ball left an impact on the former lottery pick.
In a recent appearance on the Run Your Race podcast (YouTube link), Smith praised Ball’s dedication, citing this as what makes him stand out in the NBA.
“LaMelo Ball doesn’t do anything but play basketball. He’s always in the gym, putting in work. There’ve been nights when I’d come to the gym late, and he’d just be finishing up. Even when he’s playing video games, it’s 2K. He’s all about basketball. People don’t understand how dedicated he is, but I’ve seen it firsthand. Melo is one of those guys who lives and breathes the game. He’s young, but he’s already got that focus and work ethic that sets him apart.”
Former LaMelo Ball Teammate, Dennis Smith Jr., Explains What ‘Sets Him Apart’
LaMelo Ball’s 2024-25 Season With the Charlotte Hornets
After playing just 58 games in the last two seasons, Ball has played all 14 games for the Hornets this season. In those games, he is averaging 28.4 points on 42.6% shooting. Additionally, he is averaging 4.8 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. The season is still young, but there is no denying that this is some of the best basketball Ball has played so far in the NBA. Furthermore, Ball’s teammate, Brandon Miller, spoke about his ability to take over a game after the Hornets’ overtime loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on November 10.
“That’s every game,” Brandon Miller said. “I expect it every game. It’s not anything surprising. I think that’s what he does, is play at a high clip in this league. And he’s going to keep getting better every day.”
Unfortunately for Ball and the team, this is a solid representation of how the Hornets’ season has gone so far. Through 14 games, the Hornets currently have a 5-9 record, 11th-best in the Eastern Conference. Regardless, there is a lot to like about the Hornets roster and what they are capable of.
The Last Word
Ball may be in the midst of his best season in the NBA, which is a big deal for the Hornets. There was never any doubt that the California native had talent. However, his injury concerns were very real as well. Ball played in more than 60 games just once in his NBA career–the 2021-22 season. This was also the only time Ball made an All-Star team. Additionally, the 2021-22 campaign was the only time after the 2015-16 season the Hornets had a winning record.
Nobody expects the Hornets to become title contenders overnight. However, there is a lot of talent in Charlotte. Additionally, while a championship is likely not on their horizon, the Hornets can earn a playoff spot as soon as this season. A lot of their success will depend on Ball’s health. Roughly a month into the season, though, there is little reason to have doubts about Ball this season. He seems primed to make another All-Star team this season. Furthermore, he can lead the Hornets to the playoffs for the first time in nearly a decade.
