NBA Announces Double Punishment Decision After LaMelo Ball, Bam Adebayo Incident
Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball dropped a 30-point double-double with 10 assists on Tuesday night to help his franchise keep their season alive with a 127-126 OT win over the Miami Heat in the 9-10 Play-In Tournament matchup.
Ball came under fire after intentionally grabbing onto Bam Adebayo's legs after a possession, which prompted the 28-year-old Heat center to fall to the court and pick up an injury. Adebayo wouldn't play more than 11 minutes and became a key absence, with many blaming his absence on Ball's irresponsible on-court action.
The NBA has announced its decision on Ball's actions, fining the 24-year-old guard twice. He received a $35,000 fine for tripping Adebayo during the game and another $25,000 for using profane language on national television, making it a total of $60,000 in punishment for Ball.
"Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball has been fined $35,000 and assessed a Flagrant Foul 2 upon league office review for making unnecessary and reckless contact with Miami Heat center-forward Bam Adebayo that created a significant injury risk, it was announced today by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations."
"Ball has been fined an additional $25,000 for using profane language during a live postgame television interview."
Ball's Hornets will play the loser of the 76ers and Magic's Play-in game on Thursday with a chance to seal their first playoff appearance in a decade. However, there is considerable controversy surrounding the 24-year-old point guard before his potential first-ever playoff appearance.
He averaged 20.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 7.1 assists this season, leading the Hornets as their offensive hub. Since he won't be faced with a suspension, he will be available for the most important game they've played in many years, as one more win takes them into the NBA playoffs for the first time since 2016.
Related: LaMelo Ball Issues Apology After Bam Adebayo Incident
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This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 9:05 PM.