Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball has been fined $100,000 (£79,000) by the NBA for making what the league deemed an “offensive and derogatory” homophobic comment during a courtside interview.
The 23-year-old’s remark came after the Hornets’ narrow 115-114 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday. Ball was discussing his team’s defensive strategy during the game’s final moments, which saw Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo miss a crucial last-second attempt.
The specifics of the comment have not been disclosed, but the NBA deemed it in violation of its policies promoting inclusivity and respect.
Following the incident, Ball addressed the media after scoring 31 points in Sunday’s 128-114 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
“I really didn’t mean anything and don’t want to offend anybody. I’ve got love for everybody, and I don’t discriminate,” he said.
The $100,000 fine is the maximum penalty the NBA can impose for such conduct under its guidelines. The league has been consistent in penalizing players for discriminatory language, emphasizing its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
Ball’s fine follows other recent sanctions by the NBA:
Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves): Fined $35,000 (£28,000) for an obscene gesture towards fans during Friday’s 130-126 overtime win against the Sacramento Kings.
Past Offenses: Edwards was previously fined $40,000 in 2022 for using homophobic language on Instagram.
Kevin Durant (Brooklyn Nets, 2021): Fined $50,000 for using homophobic and misogynistic language in private messages later made public.
The NBA continues to reinforce its zero-tolerance policy toward discriminatory behavior. By issuing significant fines, the league aims to underline the importance of respect and inclusivity within the sport.
Fans and advocacy groups have expressed mixed reactions. Some applaud the NBA’s firm stance, while others argue for more educational initiatives alongside punitive measures to promote understanding and prevent future incidents.
As the league navigates these challenges, the hope remains that players and teams will lead by example, fostering a culture of inclusivity both on and off the court.
