Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball fined $100,000 for ‘offensive and derogatory’ phrase

Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball has been fined $100,000 by the NBA for using what the league called an “offensive and derogatory” remark following his team’s 115-114 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday. The comment, made during an interview on the Hornets’ local FanDuel Sports Network, came when Ball was asked about how the team defended Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo during the final moments of the game.

In the interview, Ball said, “Yeah, we loaded up – no homo.” The phrase, which the NBA deemed inappropriate, was meant to describe the defensive strategy used against Antetokounmpo. Ball continued by saying, “But that’s what we wanted. Put the hand up, and then just live with the results.” The use of the phrase “no homo” has been criticized for its association with homophobic undertones, which the NBA found unacceptable.

The following day, after the Hornets’ 128-114 loss to the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers, Ball addressed the controversy. “Before we get started, I just want to address the comment yesterday,” Ball said to reporters, according to the Associated Press. “I really didn’t mean anything by it and don’t want to offend anybody. I’ve got love for everybody, and I don’t discriminate.”

Hornets head coach Charles Lee also spoke out about the situation, emphasizing that such language was not condoned by the organization. “As an organization, that is obviously not something we condone,” Lee said. “Our standards and what is required of our players in the environment we create is really important to us.” He went on to share that he had discussed the matter with Ball personally.

Lee added, “I spoke to Melo and he’s obviously very apologetic. From what I’ve seen since I’ve been around him, he loves everyone. He’s a joy to have around the facility and it’s not typically how he operates.” Lee also noted that he and Ball had a serious conversation about the incident and the importance of maintaining proper conduct. “He and I talked about the seriousness of the situation and how he needs to conduct himself going forward,” said Lee. “He and I talked about it and he definitely said going forward, ‘I’m going to be better,’ and I want to see that happen.”

The incident has put Ball in the spotlight, with the young star receiving significant attention for his remarks. However, he also expressed his commitment to learning from the experience. “I will be better,” Ball assured reporters, acknowledging the need for accountability and improvement in his future conduct. The NBA’s decision to fine Ball comes as part of the league’s ongoing effort to address derogatory language and maintain a respectful and inclusive environment for all players, coaches, and fans.

Ball, who is currently averaging 29.7 points, 6.7 assists, and five rebounds per game this season, is the latest NBA player to face discipline for using offensive language. In 2022, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards was fined $40,000 for using homophobic language in a post on his Instagram story. The previous year, Kevin Durant, then with the Brooklyn Nets, was fined $50,000 for using homophobic and misogynistic slurs in private messages with actor Michael Rapaport.

The fine serves as a reminder to players of the responsibility they hold as public figures and the impact their words can have on others. The NBA has increasingly emphasized the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment both on and off the court, taking a strong stance against the use of derogatory language.

Ball’s fine is a significant step in this ongoing effort to address harmful language and promote a more inclusive culture within the NBA. As the league continues to foster an environment of respect and understanding, players like Ball will be held accountable for their actions, ensuring that such incidents are addressed promptly and appropriately.

While Ball has expressed regret for his comment and pledged to improve, the fine and the public attention surrounding the incident highlight the league’s commitment to combating derogatory language and promoting respect. Moving forward, both the NBA and its players will continue to face the challenge of ensuring that the language and behavior within the sport reflect the values of inclusivity and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.