ESPN Personality Says LaMelo Ball Is Feuding With Hornets Coach
espn-personality-says-lamelo-ball-feuding-with-hornets-coach
Charlotte Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball is reportedly locked in a heated dispute with his head coach, according to an ESPN on-air personality who relayed the claim on January 11, 2026.
Alleged profanity-laced outburst
During the broadcast, the ESPN figure said Ball reacted to coaching directives by shouting, “F–k this motherf–ker,” an outburst the broadcaster characterized as evidence of mounting tension between the former Rookie of the Year and the team’s bench boss.
The network personality did not provide additional context, such as when the exchange occurred or what specifically triggered the remark, but insisted the relationship between player and coach has become increasingly strained.
The Hornets have not publicly addressed the report, and representatives for Ball have also remained silent. No timetable has been given for any possible meeting or disciplinary action.
Ball, 24, is averaging 22.5 points and 8.1 assists this season. He is in the first year of a five-year maximum contract extension signed in July 2025.
The coach referenced in the broadcast was not identified by name during the segment.
Source: New York Post
