The Charlotte Hornets want more than highlight plays from LaMelo Ball this season. Head coach Charles Lee said the 23-year-old point guard has been asked to steer the locker room, and newcomer Collin Sexton is expected to help him get there.
According to Lee, Sexton has intensified workouts at the team facility and rarely leaves Ball’s side after practice, using the extra time to trade ideas and build chemistry. The coach described the two guards as “inseparable” during offseason sessions.
Lee, Ball and team president Jeff Peterson met for dinner earlier this week to outline expectations, review summer impressions and discuss Ball’s personal growth plan. The fourth-year guard has reinforced those discussions by setting personal bests in the weight room while adding strength to his lower body.
The organization is also counting on a second-year jump from forward Brandon Miller, whose sophomore campaign ended in January because of wrist surgery. Lee said Miller’s rehab has been diligent and that the former No. 2 overall pick has become noticeably more vocal, leading film sessions and mentoring teammates such as Nick Smith Jr.
Charlotte is not projecting itself into the Eastern Conference’s upper tier yet, but the club believes internal growth—headlined by Ball’s evolving leadership and Miller’s expanding voice—can narrow the gap.
Source: Hoops Wire
