Hornets' LaMelo Ball available to play one day after car accident that totaled his vehicle in Charlotte
CBS Sports
by
Brad Crawford
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball escaped unharmed after being involved in a significant car accident in Uptown Charlotte. The incident occurred when his customized GMC EV Hummer collided with a Kia sedan, resulting in the total destruction of his vehicle. Despite the crash, which happened near 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Ball was not injured and was seen leaving the scene in a Lamborghini. Both vehicles involved were towed from the accident site, but an official report has yet to be released.
The Hornets have been on a strong winning streak, with Ball leading the team to victory in 10 out of their last 11 games. This impressive performance has positioned Charlotte as the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference standings, just 3.5 games behind the Miami Heat. Ball, a sixth-year pro and former No. 3 overall draft pick, is averaging 19.3 points and 7.4 assists per game this season. His leadership has been crucial for the team's recent success, with their starting lineup—including standout rookie Kon Kneuppel—showcasing potential to secure a playoff appearance for the first time since 2015-16.
The Hornets' upcoming game against the Houston Rockets on Thursday night is pivotal as they aim to maintain their momentum. Ball’s availability despite the accident highlights his resilience and dedication to the team. His presence on the court not only boosts Charlotte’s chances of continuing their winning streak but also underscores the importance of key players in high-stakes competition. Sports fans interested in the NBA will closely follow how this incident impacts Ball’s performance and the Hornets’ playoff hopes.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/19/2026