The Charlotte Hornets selected LaMelo Ball with the no. 3 overall pick in the first round of the 2020 NBA Draft—and for good reason. With the Golden State Warriors passing on Ball in favor of big man James Wiseman with the no. 2 overall selection, the Hornets rookie guard has turned heads with his steady play while making records along the way.
On Monday against the Houston Rockets, Ball tied a rookie record held by two-time MVP Stephen Curry and Hall of Fame guard Jason Kidd as he became the third newcomer in NBA history to nail at least seven three-pointers and record at least 10 assists in a game.
Not bad company at all for the 19-year-old Ball.
LaMelo just became the 3rd rook since Steph and Jason Kidd to hit 7+ threes and drop 10+ assists 🔥 pic.twitter.com/lflcrDmJKT
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 9, 2021
Ball and the Hornets went on to defeat the Rockets to the tune of 119-94 at the Spectrum Center. As a result, the Hornets now sit at a nearly even 12-13 on the season, placing them right in the thick of the Eastern Conference postseason picture. Leading the way against the Rockets, Ball tallied 24 points, seven rebounds, and 10 assists in 32 minutes as he continues to flourish in a starting role with Devonte' Graham sitting out again due to a groin strain.
Ball more than held his own against the more established Victor Oladipo as he also set the table for his teammates. Five other Hornets finished in twin digits in scoring with Gordon Hayward and Miles Bridges putting up 19 points apiece.
Although he began his rookie season a little shaky, LaMelo Ball has asserted himself more, something that certainly won't be changing any time soon.
Follow Us
Subscribe