LAMELO BALL

One of the most recognizable young superstars in the NBA, LaMelo Ball is an All-Star point guard for the Charlotte Hornets who hails from Chino Hills, California.

During his junior year of high school, Ball left the United States to play professionally in Lithuania for Prienai, becoming one of the youngest Americans to sign a professional basketball contract at the time. Despite verbally committing to UCLA at just 13 years old, LaMelo ultimately chose to bypass college to continue pursuing professional opportunities.

In 2019, Ball signed with the Illawarra Hawks of Australia’s National Basketball League, where he was named Rookie of the Year before declaring for the 2020 NBA Draft.

Ball was selected third overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2020 NBA Draft and made an immediate impact. Coming off the bench, he earned 2020–21 Kia NBA Rookie of the Year honors after averaging 15.7 points, 6.1 assists, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.6 steals in 28.8 minutes per game across 51 appearances, including 31 starts.

During his sophomore season, Ball elevated his play further, averaging 20.1 points, 7.6 assists, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals in 32.3 minutes per game over 75 contests, earning his first NBA All-Star selection.

In July 2023, the Hornets rewarded LaMelo with a five-year contract extension worth up to $260 million. Now in the middle of his sixth NBA season, Ball continues to establish himself as one of the league’s brightest young stars while aiming to lead Charlotte into title contention.

Beyond basketball, LaMelo Ball is deeply committed to giving back through the Lamelo Ball Foundation which is devoted to uplifting youth and families across Charlotte, North Carolina. Inspired by his family’s personal journey, particularly his mother’s resilience during her recovery from a stroke, LaMelo founded the organization to create meaningful, lasting support for those facing adversity. 

The Foundation focuses on mental health, education, sports access, and essential resources, with the goal of empowering young people through mentorship, wellness initiatives, and community engagement. Guided by a mission rooted in compassion, resilience, and opportunity, the LaMelo Ball Foundation works to strengthen the Charlotte community and build sustainable pathways for youth success while fostering hope and positive change for future generations.