CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte Hornets star guard LaMelo Ball was involved in a car crash during the NBA All-Star break, when his custom-wrapped Hummer lost a wheel after colliding with another vehicle on a city street Wednesday evening.
According to video footage obtained by local station WSOC-TV, the incident occurred as Ball attempted to make a left turn in his camouflage-patterned Hummer, striking a gray sedan that was proceeding straight through the intersection. The footage shows the Hummer continuing to roll slowly after the impact, with visible damage to both vehicles. The sedan's front end sustained considerable damage, while Ball's Hummer lost its driver's side front wheel in the collision.
Ball exited his vehicle without any apparent injuries, according to witnesses and the WSOC-TV report. The status of the sedan's driver remains unknown, as officials have not released further details on any potential injuries. Ball remained at the scene while both vehicles were towed away, and he reportedly left the area when someone picked him up in a Lamborghini.
The crash took place amid the NBA's All-Star break, a period when players typically get some downtime before the second half of the season ramps up. For Ball, who has been a key figure for the Hornets since being drafted third overall in 2020, the incident adds an unexpected wrinkle to what has been a challenging year on and off the court.
Ball's Hummer is no ordinary vehicle; it's a highly customized 2022 Hummer EV Edition 1, modified by Dreamworks Motorsports in Charlotte. The shop outfitted it with large custom wheels featuring orange rims emblazoned with "1 of 1" on the inside, a design that mirrors Ball's signature Puma basketball shoe. The camouflage wrap gives it a distinctive look that Ball has frequently showcased around the city since the modifications were completed.
Repairing the damage won't come cheap, sources familiar with the vehicle say. The Hummer, already a luxury electric SUV with a starting price well over $100,000, now requires bodywork and likely wheel replacement after the accident. Dreamworks Motorsports has not commented publicly on the crash or the extent of the repairs needed, but the vehicle's unique customizations suggest a lengthy and costly return to the road.
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has not issued an official statement on the crash as of Thursday morning, but WSOC-TV reported that no citations were immediately issued at the scene. Investigations into such incidents typically involve reviewing dashcam footage, witness statements, and any available surveillance video to determine fault. In this case, the WSOC-TV video provides a clear view of the moment of impact, showing the Hummer turning left into the path of the oncoming sedan.
For the Hornets, the timing of the crash is particularly unfortunate. The team returns to action Thursday night at Spectrum Center, hosting the Houston Rockets to kick off the post-All-Star portion of their schedule. Ball, averaging 23.5 points, 8.0 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game this season according to NBA stats, is expected to play despite the off-court mishap, as the team has not indicated any absence.
Ball's penchant for flashy vehicles has been well-documented throughout his career. From his time in Los Angeles with his family to his life in Charlotte, the 22-year-old guard has often been seen driving high-end cars that reflect his personal style. The custom Hummer, in particular, became a staple in his garage after Dreamworks wrapped it up last year, often spotted near the team's practice facility.
While the crash appears minor in terms of injuries, it underscores the risks professional athletes face in their personal lives during downtime. Similar incidents have drawn attention in the past, such as when other NBA stars like Ja Morant or Russell Westbrook have been involved in off-court accidents, sometimes leading to broader discussions about player safety and responsibility.
WSOC-TV's coverage, which first aired the video Wednesday night, described the scene as chaotic but contained. "The Hummer just kept going after losing the wheel," a reporter noted in the broadcast, highlighting how the vehicle managed to roll forward despite the severe damage. The station also confirmed that emergency responders arrived quickly, though no ambulance transport was needed for Ball.
Ball himself has not commented on the incident publicly, and representatives for the Hornets declined to provide details when reached by The Appleton Times. The organization emphasized that Ball is "fine and focused on the upcoming games," according to a team spokesperson. As the investigation continues, more information may emerge about the sedan's driver and any potential legal ramifications.
Beyond the immediate details, the crash serves as a reminder of Charlotte's growing pains as an NBA market. The city has embraced Ball as a homegrown talent since his trade to the Hornets, with fans hoping he can lead the team deeper into the playoffs. This season, the Hornets sit at 18-35, fighting for positioning in the Eastern Conference lottery, and Ball's health and availability remain crucial to their turnaround efforts.
Looking ahead, the Hornets' matchup against the Rockets could provide an early test of the team's resilience post-break. Houston, led by young stars like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, has been one of the league's surprise teams, holding a 32-20 record. For Ball, returning to the court after the crash will likely shift the focus back to basketball, where his dynamic play has made him a three-time All-Star at just 22 years old.
In the broader context of the NBA, incidents like this are relatively rare but always draw scrutiny. The league's players union and teams often emphasize safe driving campaigns, especially during breaks when schedules loosen up. As Ball and the Hornets move forward, the hope is that this remains a footnote in an otherwise promising career trajectory for the young guard.
The Appleton Times will continue to follow developments in the crash investigation and Ball's performance as the season progresses. For now, Charlotte basketball fans can breathe a sigh of relief that their star emerged unscathed from what could have been a more serious accident.