Now in his fourth season, Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball has finally stepped out from the shadows of his father, LaVar, and brother, Lonzo.
In fact, LaMelo — who wowed crowds at Chino Hills (Calif.) High School and played in Lithuania and Australia before playing in an NBA game — has arrived as a superstar. Â
Despite a slow start this season, the 22-year-old is averaging 25.3 points, 5.6 rebounds and 8.3 assists and shooting career highs from the field (44.4%) and three-point range (39.1%). Lonzo, meanwhile, has yet to play this season for the Chicago Bulls while recovering from a knee injury.
Over the past eight games, LaMelo has taken his play to another level. In that span, he is averaging 32 points, 6.5 rebounds and 8.1 assists and shooting 50.3% from the field. He is also shooting 44.9% from three on 9.8 attempts per game.
LaMelo is an expert creator and one of the league’s best playmakers. With his height (6-foot-7), he can see over most players defending him. He also has the awareness and vision to make passes other players would not dream of attempting.
That skill was on display Monday night against the Boston Celtics.Â