Minnesota’s LaMelo Ball traveled on a 3-pointer in the second quarter of Wednesday’s win over the Miami Heat, according to the officials’ association that represents NBA referees, which posted a clip of the play to X to confirm the violation.
“For everyone asking, ‘how is this legal?’ It’s not!” the referees’ union wrote. “He gathers with his right foot on the floor and would be permitted two steps by rule (left-right). He takes four steps after gathering the ball and travels.”
Brother made the call
Ball’s brother, seven-year NBA veteran Lonzo Ball, called the violation immediately after the play.
LaMelo Ball, who was making his Minnesota debut, did not agree when asked about the call in a televised postgame interview. He insisted he had not committed a violation.
“He hatin’. He hatin’,” LaMelo Ball said. “See, I gotta give him a call right now, cause with the family, he knows what you’re supposed to do. Even if I’m wrong, I’m right. That’s how it goes.”
Impact on the game
The shot, which should not have counted, broke a 39-39 tie. However, it did little to affect the outcome. LaMelo Ball finished with 21 points, and Minnesota won 131-106.