Charlotte Hornets LaMelo Ball vs Chicago Bulls (Image via Getty) LaMelo Ball’s availability remains the main question as the Charlotte Hornets get set to face the Philadelphia 76ers on January 26. He has been dealing with a right thumb contusion, but there is no official indication that he will sit out. As of the latest injury updates, Ball has not been ruled out, and the expectation around the team is that he is pushing to play.Charlotte’s lineup has often looked different with and without Ball on the floor, which makes his status important for this matchup. Philadelphia is also navigating injuries of its own, adding another layer of uncertainty to how the game could unfold.
LaMelo Ball’s Status Entering the Game vs Philadelphia 76ers (January 26, 2026)
LaMelo Ball is not listed as out on the Hornets’ most recent injury report. The thumb issue surfaced recently, but Ball has already played through it. He was previously listed as questionable for an earlier game and still took the floor, suggesting the injury is being managed rather than worsening.There have been no reports of setbacks specific to January 26, and Ball is also not included alongside other injured Hornets, such as KJ Simpson. That absence from the report points toward availability, though a final call is expected closer to tip-off.
Charlotte Hornets Game Context Against Philadelphia 76ers
The Charlotte Hornets will host the Philadelphia 76ers in an Eastern Conference matchup that could shift based on who is available. Philadelphia will be without Joel Embiid, who is sitting out due to ankle injury management on the second night of a back-to-back.Charlotte also has uncertainty elsewhere. Collin Sexton is a game-time decision because of a hamstring issue, which could further increase Ball’s role if he plays.
How the Injury Has Affected LaMelo Ball
Ball first dealt with the thumb contusion after coming off the bench against Cleveland. Despite the issue, he logged minutes and remained productive. He later played through a questionable designation and scored efficiently, showing no major limitations.Since then, there have been no new concerns tied to the thumb. His continued presence in games suggests the Hornets’ staff is comfortable with his condition.
Season Numbers and History vs. the 76ers
This season, LaMelo Ball is averaging 19.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 7 assists. Those numbers reflect his role as the primary ball handler and creator for Charlotte. Against Philadelphia, he has been consistent, averaging 19.1 points and 7.1 assists across eight career games. That stretch includes a 38-point performance in November 2024.Support from Brandon Miller and Miles Bridges gives Charlotte additional scoring options if Ball is available.
What to Watch Charlotte Hornets vs Philadelphia 76ers (January 26, 2026)
If Ball plays, Charlotte gains stability and playmaking, especially with Philadelphia missing key pieces. His shooting has held up despite the thumb issue, including a recent strong performance from three-point range.Also read: Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the Charlotte Hornets? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star’s injury report (January 26, 2026)The final status should be clear closer to tip-off, but all current signs suggest Ball is trending toward playing as the Hornets look to take advantage of a short-handed opponent.