LaMelo Ball was having a hot start to the NBA season for the Charlotte Hornets before an ankle injury got in the way. In his first six games of the season, the All-Star point guard has produced averages of 23.3 points on 43.0% shooting, 7.8 rebounds, 9.8 assists and 1.7 steals, while also knocking down 3.3 triples on a 33.3% clip.
Ball, however, has been forced to sit out Charlotte’s last five games due to his ankle problem. What’s concerning here is the fact that it’s the same ankle that required season-ending surgery last term, limiting the former Rookie of the Year to just 47 games in 2024-25.
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Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) reacts to a foul during a game.Scott Kinser-Imagn Images
While Ball remains one of the top young guards in the NBA today, injuries have been an issue for the 24-year-old for pretty much his entire six-year career. He played a career-best 75 games in his second season, which resulted in his one and only All-Star call-up. However, in his other four seasons, Ball has played just 156 out of a possible 328 games. This season, the former Chino Hills High School star has featured in six out of the Hornets’ 11 games.
The good news for Ball is that he is now trending toward his return to action. On Thursday, the Hornets announced a positive update on Ball’s injury. He is now listed as probable to play on Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks.
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There is still no guarantee that Ball will suit up against the Bucks, but the fact that he has been given the probable tag means that he is likely to make his return. Nevertheless, Charlotte should confirm Ball’s status closer to tipoff.
If Ball is able to return, either Collin Sexton or Sion James will likely move back to a bench role.
The Hornets enter Friday’s matchup with a 4-7 record, looking for a back-to-back victory against the Bucks after the 111-100 victory on Wednesday.
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Related: NBA Announces Punishment for Hornets’ LaMelo Ball
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 13, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.