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Brandon Miller praises LaMelo Ball’s resilience after All-Star snub

Miller speaks on the snub.
Tyler Carmona|
Feb 10, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) brings the ball up court against the Brooklyn Nets during the first quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Feb 10, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) brings the ball up court against the Brooklyn Nets during the first quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images | Brad Penner-Imagn Images

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Charlotte Hornets

Charlotte Hornets rookie Brandon Miller had high praise for his star teammate LaMelo Ball. Although Ball wasn’t selected to this year's All-Star game, Miller lauded his teammates' positive mindset throughout the process. 

“That’s one of the guys who’s definitely supposed to be here,” Miller said during a SiriusXM NBA Radio interview. “Hats off to him for not laying his head down, not getting down on himself, only because he didn’t make All-Star. He’s gonna keep shining and being LaMelo.”

The 22-year-old point guard is putting together the most productive offensive season of his career,  averaging 27.3 points, 7.2 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game. 

While his stats were impressive, Ball’s constant bouts with nagging injuries throughout the season might have played a part in the snub. His scoring average would rank among the league’s top ten, but he has not played enough games to technically qualify. Another potential hindering factor is his offensive inefficiencies, 

Since being picked by the Hornets with the No.2 overall selection in 2023, Miller has also showcased some dynamic offensive ability. Before suffering a season-ending knee injury, Miller was averaging 21 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.6 rebounds.  The chemistry between Miller and Ball has been a focal point for the Hornets’ future, with the rookie embracing the leadership role of his veteran point guard.

Despite the All-Star snub, it seems like Ball’s productivity and mentality isn’t going unnoticed by his teammates.

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Tyler Carmona
TYLER CARMONA

Tyler joined the Charlotte Hornets On SI team in December of 2024. He previously worked as a local TV news reporter at WSAV in Savannah, Georgia, and for ESPN Radio. After earning a bachelor's degree from the University of Florida, he attended grad school at Savannah State. Tyler's primary focus in Hornets coverage is centered around the draft and free agency.

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