Hornets' LaMelo Ball Expected to Play After Car Crash

Ball was involved in a two-car collision in Charlotte a day before the team's game against the Rockets.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball is not listed on the team's injury report and is expected to play Thursday night against the Houston Rockets, one day after being involved in a two-car crash in Charlotte. Video showed Ball's custom-made Hummer colliding with another vehicle, but he was able to get out of his truck and into another car before being driven away. A police report has not been made available, and there is no information on the other driver involved.

Why it matters

Car crashes involving professional athletes in Charlotte have been a recurring issue, with former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and current backup Andy Dalton both being involved in crashes in the city. The incident raises concerns about player safety and the risks associated with high-profile athletes driving on local roads.

The details

According to video obtained by WSOC-TV in Charlotte, Ball's camouflage-colored, custom-made Hummer collided with another vehicle as he was driving through an intersection. The left front tire of Ball's truck was missing after the crash, but he was able to get out of the vehicle and into another car before being driven away. Police were on the scene at the time, but a police report has not been made available, and there is no information on the other driver involved in the collision.

  • The crash occurred on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Ball is expected to play against the Houston Rockets on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The players

LaMelo Ball

A point guard for the Charlotte Hornets who is one of the NBA's rising stars and a key reason for the team's recent success.

Cam Newton

A former quarterback for the Carolina Panthers who was involved in a car crash in Charlotte in 2014, fracturing his back.

Andy Dalton

The current backup quarterback for the Carolina Panthers who was involved in a two-car crash in Charlotte in 2024, injuring his thumb.

Bobby Phills

A former Hornets guard who was killed in a car crash at age 30 following a practice on January 12, 2000.

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What’s next

The Hornets will provide an update on Ball's status closer to Thursday's game against the Rockets.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing risks and challenges professional athletes face when driving on public roads, even in their home cities. It also serves as a reminder of the tragic history of car crashes involving sports figures in Charlotte, underscoring the need for enhanced safety measures and awareness around this issue.