LaMelo Ball Strikes Mascot Twice on Video Celebrating Hornets' Win vs. Heat
Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball reacted to the game-winning layup that eliminated the Miami Heat from the play-in tournament on Tuesday night with a potentially overenthusiastic celebration involving mascot Hugo the Hornet.
WBTV News reporter Cam Gaskins shared a video that showed Ball, while celebrating on the court after Miles Bridges sealed the victory by blocking the Hornets' attempt at a game-winner, apparently dapping up Hugo before hitting the head of the hornet costume twice.
Hugo appeared to stumble away as Ball continued celebrating.
That wasn't the only collision involving Ball that drew attention Tuesday night.
Ball apologized after the game for a play that led Heat star Bam Adebayo to exit in the second quarter with a lower back injury. The NBA is expected to review the play, per NBA insider Chris Haynes.
Ball ultimately finished the game with 10 assists and 30 points, including his game-winner, to help the Hornets stay in the play-in tournament with a 127-126 victory over the Heat.
Either the Philadelphia 76ers or Orlando Magic, who face off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday night in Philadelphia, now stand between the Hornets and the franchise's first playoff appearance since 2016.
