NBA player LaMelo Ball has been fined $100,000 by the league for using an anti-gay slur during a post-game interview, which the NBA described as “offensive and derogatory.”
Charlotte Hornets head coach Charles Lee addressed the situation on Sunday, November 17, saying Ball is “very apologetic” for his comments. The incident occurred following the Hornets’ victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, November 16.
During a post-game interview, reporter Shannon Spake questioned Ball about his team’s defensive strategy in stopping Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo in the game’s final moments. Ball responded by explaining their tactics, saying, “We loaded up,” before lowering his voice and adding, “No homo,” a phrase widely regarded as homophobic.
The NBA issued the 23-year-old the maximum fine on Sunday, just before the Hornets faced the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Speaking during pre-game media availability, Lee emphasised the organisation’s commitment to high standards and condemned Ball’s remarks.
“As an organisation, that is obviously not something we condone,” Lee stated. “Our standards and what is required of our players in the environment we create is really important to us.”
In his first season as head coach, Lee said he had spoken with Ball about the incident. “He’s obviously very apologetic. From what I’ve seen since I’ve been around him, he loves everyone. He’s a joy to have around the facility, and it’s not typically how he operates.”
The coach expressed confidence that Ball understood the gravity of the situation and would learn from it. “He and I talked about the seriousness of the situation and how he needs to conduct himself going forward,” he said.
Lee also apologised on behalf of the team. “He understands what’s going to be expected of him. I look forward to seeing him grow from this moment,” Lee added. “He’s said, ‘Going forward, I’m going to be better,’ and I want to see that happen. We will hold him accountable to that.”
Ball did not address reporters before the game.
