The NBA is reviewing the play on Charlotte Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball, taking out Miami Heat star center Bam Adebayo in Tuesday’s play-in game.
NBA insider Chris Haynes shared the news on Wednesday via X.
Sources: NBA to review Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball for taking out ankle of Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo in 2nd Q, resulting in hard spill and back injury that cost him rest of crucial do-or-die play-in contest. Ruling expected before Hornets’ final play-in bout on Friday. pic.twitter.com/o6z9FwFziA
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) April 15, 2026
Adebayo suffered the injury in the second quarter of Tuesday’s contest. Ball missed a fadeaway shot, and as Adebayo went for the rebound while trying to stay inbounds, Ball, who fell to the floor near Adebayo, swiped at one of the Heat center’s feet with his left arm.
The Heat center fell right on his bottom and remained on the floor as the next possession took place until there was a stoppage. Adebayo was initially ruled questionable for the rest of the contest until the second half came around, where he was ruled out.
Adebayo finished the contest with six points on 3-for-3 shooting from the field, three rebounds and one assist in 11 minutes.
Hornets Move Forward With Uncertainty Around LaMelo Ball
After the contest, Ball apologized for the play he committed on Adebayo.
“I apologize on that one,” Ball said. “I got hit in the head, didn’t really know where I was, but I’mma check on him and see if he’s okay and everything.”
The Hornets will now take on the loser of the East’s No. 7 vs No. 8 seed, which features the Philadelphia 76ers and the Orlando Magic. Charlotte will travel to either one of those cities for a chance to clinch the No. 8 seed and face the No. 1 seed Detroit Pistons in the first round.
However, there is a chance they could face the 76ers or Magic without Ball. It’s unclear what direction the NBA will go, but things could be dire for the Hornets in their final play-in contest if they are without Ball.
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