The NBA referees’ union has confirmed that Minnesota guard LaMelo Ball traveled on a 3-pointer in the second quarter of the Timberwolves’ win over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, despite Ball’s insistence that he did nothing wrong.
The union posted a clip from the game on X to settle the matter. “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.”
Ball’s brother, seven-year NBA veteran Lonzo Ball, made the call immediately after the play.
Ball Disagrees With the Call
In a televised postgame interview, LaMelo Ball, who was making his Minnesota debut, acknowledged that his brother had called the violation but refused to accept it. “He hatin’. He hatin’,” 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.”
Shot Broke a Tie
The disputed 3-pointer broke a 39-39 tie. It did not decide the outcome, however. Ball finished with 21 points, and Minnesota won 131-106.