LaMelo Ball, the star point guard of the Charlotte Hornets, suffered another setback in his young career when he injured his right ankle in a game against the Orlando Magic on Sunday. The incident occurred in the second quarter, when Ball drove to the basket and collided with Magic rookie Pablo Banchero, who accidentally stepped on Ball’s right foot as he was backing away from the rim. B
all’s ankle twisted slightly, and he immediately fell to the floor in agony. He had to be helped off the court by his teammates and was ruled out for the rest of the game. The Hornets later announced that Ball had suffered a right ankle strain, and that his status would be updated as appropriate.
It is not clear how long Ball will be out of action, but the injury is a cause for concern for both him and the Hornets, who are fighting for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Ball, who is averaging 25.6 points, 8.4 assists, and 6.4 rebounds per game this season, is the team’s leader and best player. He was on an absolute scoring tear from three point land in the games following the NBA’s decision to make him to cover his neck tattoo.
The injury also raises questions about Ball’s footwear and protection, as this is not the first time he has hurt his right ankle. In fact, Ball missed a large chunk of last season after fracturing his right ankle in a game against the Detroit Pistons on February 27, 2023. He underwent surgery and made a full recovery, but could there be a stability issue that led to his right ankle strain?
Is it Time For Lamelo Ball To Start Wearing the Steph Curry Ankle Braces?
Ball has had a history of ankle sprains and strains, dating back to his high school and college days. He has been wearing low-top shoes throughout his career, which some experts believe may increase the risk of ankle injuries. Ball has also been reluctant to wear ankle braces, which are designed to provide support and stability to the ankle joint and prevent excessive inversion or eversion.
Some fans and analysts have suggested that Ball should consider wearing the same brand of ankle braces that saved Stephen Curry’s career. Curry, the four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP of the Golden State Warriors, had multiple surgeries on his right ankle early in his career, and was plagued by chronic ankle sprains that threatened to derail his potential. There was point where he was considered damaged goods.
However, since the 2012-13 season, Curry has been wearing the Zamst A2-DX ankle brace, which he credits for giving him the confidence and support he needs to play without fear of re-injuring his ankle.
The Zamst A2-DX is a strong support ankle brace that features an anatomically correct fit, a dual exterior molded support structure, and an anti-slip grip-tech inner lining. The brace is designed to prevent the ankle from rolling inward or outward, while allowing enough flexibility and mobility for the foot.
Curry has been loyal to the Zamst A2-DX ever since he started wearing it, and has won four championships, two MVP awards, and countless All-Star selections while wearing it. He has also become one of the greatest shooters and players in NBA history, breaking numerous records and revolutionizing the game with his long-range prowess. He’s still going strong despite approaching 36 years old.
With LaMelo Ball’s similar style of play, which involves a lot of cutting, driving, and shooting, some fans and analysts believe that he could benefit from wearing the Zamst A2-DX as well. They argue that the brace could provide him with the protection and stability he needs to avoid further ankle injuries, and allow him to unleash his full potential on the court.
Of course, the decision to wear ankle braces is ultimately up to Ball and his medical team, who know his condition and preferences better than anyone else. However, given his history of ankle problems, and the example of Curry’s success, it may be worth considering for the young star.
After all, Ball has a bright future ahead of him, and the Hornets and their fans would love to see him healthy and happy for many years to come. Perhaps he needs some Big Baller Brand custom made ankle braces.
