Hornets' LaMelo Ball Available to Play After Car Accident

Charlotte's star guard unharmed after his involvement in a near head-on collision

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball is available to play in Thursday night's game against the Houston Rockets, one day after wrecking his customized GMC EV Hummer in an accident in Uptown Charlotte. Ball was not injured in the two-car crash, which came at an intersection downtown and totaled his vehicle.

Why it matters

LaMelo Ball is a key player for the Hornets, who are currently the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference standings and fighting for a playoff spot. His availability for the upcoming game is crucial for the team's postseason hopes.

The details

Video obtained by WSOC-TV showed Ball's vehicle making contact on the driver's side with a KIA sedan shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday. The front left tire of Ball's Hummer came off of the vehicle during the accident before the GMC came to a stop near the shoulder. Ball was later spotted at the scene being picked up in a Lamborghini, and both cars involved in the wreck were reportedly towed from the scene.

  • The accident occurred on Wednesday, February 19, 2026 around 5 p.m.
  • Ball is available to play in Thursday night's game against the Houston Rockets.

The players

LaMelo Ball

Charlotte Hornets guard and former No. 3 overall draft pick, averaging 19.3 points and 7.4 assists per game this season.

Kon Kneuppel

Standout rookie for the Charlotte Hornets.

Brandon Miller

Forward for the Charlotte Hornets.

Miles Bridges

Forward for the Charlotte Hornets.

Moussa Diabate

Center for the Charlotte Hornets.

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What’s next

The Hornets will face the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, with LaMelo Ball available to play despite the car accident the previous day.

The takeaway

LaMelo Ball's availability for the Hornets' upcoming game is a relief, as the team continues its push for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The car accident could have been much worse, but Ball emerged unharmed, allowing him to remain a key contributor for Charlotte's postseason aspirations.