Lakers' LeBron James Says LaMelo Ball Is 'Damn Good' for His Age

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball has made a lot of fans in his rookie season, including four-time NBA MVP LeBron James. 

Speaking to reporters after his first head-to-head meeting with Ball on Thursday, James said he is "damn good" for his age. 

"His speed, his quickness, his ability to make shots at all facets, ya know in the paint, floaters, threes, he has the three-tier already, and he's going to only get better," James added. 

Ball has been arguably the biggest breakout star of the 2020-21 season. The Hornets star is averaging 16 points on 45.3 percent shooting (37.7 percent from three), 6.2 assists and 5.9 rebounds in 40 appearances thus far. He became the youngest player in NBA history to record a triple-double on Jan. 9 against the Atlanta Hawks. 

Charlotte has emerged as a legitimate playoff contender in the Eastern Conference thanks in large part to Ball's performance. The Hornets are currently the No. 6 seed in the east with a 20-20 record. 

James did get the last laugh against Ball with the Lakers' 116-105 win over the Hornets on Thursday, though Ball played well with 26 points, seven assists and five rebounds.