In case you live under a rock or were too busy watching football, history was made in the NBA Saturday night. LaMelo Ball became the youngest player in history to record a triple-double in a win over the Atlanta Hawks. At just 19 years old, Ball put on a show Saturday night in Charlotte. Posting a stat line of 22 PTS, 11 AST, and 12 RB. Ball flirted with a triple-double in his previous game when he battled with his brother Lonzo and the Pelicans. Coming one assist shy of creating history in that game. LaMelo is looking as good as advertised; at least the way some advertised him. Let’s look back at some draft night takes of the youngest Ball star.
Draft Night Takes
While I would love to put people on blast for hating on the pick, most were very positive about Ball’s selection. But, social media still exists, and of course, there were some unhappy folks about LaMelo heading to Charlotte.
I have reviewed several YouTube videos and determined that LaMelo Ball will be a massive BUST #nbadraft #LameloBall
— psilomonger (@onetoomanysalt1) November 19, 2020
I’m not sure if our Twitter guru here has the best eye when watching clips on YouTube. Maybe he should watch the games as they actually happen. Yes, we all watched the videos of LaMelo shooting half-court shots. I think we can separate the funny videos, from the actual talent on the floor.
LaMelo Ball= Bust waiting to happen lol
— Pat Huggins (@phuggsports) November 19, 2020
Our first blue check hater of LaMelo Ball is Pat Huggins. While I don’t know Pat, I can only assume he is jealous that the 76ers didn’t get the chance to have LaMelo on their roster. LaMelo does seem to have a prettier stroke from three than Ben Simmons.
All in all, not too many haters for the 19-year-old phenom, but calling a kid a bust before he ever plays a game is silly. Though his performance this past week doesn’t solidify a great career, I do think it’s a good foundation to build on.
Looking Ahead
Rooting for the Charlotte Hornets can be a daunting task most seasons. For once, though, this team is giving the fan base life and something to enjoy. I love the fight this squad shows and how they never seem out of any game. The Hornets really have a chance for a special season in LaMelo’s rookie year.
LaMelo seems to have a very infectious personality on the floor. He enjoys playing the game, and wants to reward his teammates when he can. When asked about his performance, this is what LaMelo had to say:
"It's just basketball. I'm doing what I love."@MELOD1P on how he's feeling after recording his first career triple double in the win.#AllFly | @hornets pic.twitter.com/IKpkcL7NBp
— FOX Sports: Hornets (@HornetsOnFSSE) January 10, 2021
The rumors of an attitude issue because of his last name seem greatly exaggerated. I’m excited to see what the future has in store for LaMelo Ball. Could it finally be a great time to be a Hornets fan? Whatever happens, I know the Hornets fanbase will be behind Ball for the ride.
Follow me on Twitter @tylerreed93, for more stories on the Charlotte Hornets, and more NBA news. Please leave comments and tell me how bad I suck at writing about sports. Let’s have some fun with this!
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