Minnesota Timberwolves guard LaMelo Ball did travel on a 3-pointer in the second quarter of Wednesday night’s win over the Miami Heat, according to the referees’ union, which posted a clip of the play to clear up any doubt.
The union, which represents NBA referees, wrote in a post on X: “For everyone asking, ‘how is this legal?’ It’s not! 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, Lonzo Ball, a seven-year NBA veteran, made the same call moments after the play.
LaMelo Ball, who was making his Minnesota debut, did not accept the ruling. Asked about his brother’s call in a televised interview after the game, 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.”
Shot broke the tie
The disputed basket broke a 39-39 tie. In the end, the three-pointer did not play a major role in the result, as LaMelo Ball finished with 21 points and Minnesota won 131-106.