Hornets Star LaMelo Ball Traded to Timberwolves—Just 2 Years After Buying Charlotte Home From NFL Legend Cam Newton

LaMelo Ball was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves by the Charlotte Hornets on an unspecified date, marking a significant career transition for the 24-year-old NBA star. The Hornets selected Ball as the first overall pick in the 2020 draft. The trade package sent Ball and teammate Josh Green to the Timberwolves, while the Hornets received Naz Reid, an unprotected first-round pick, three first-round pick swaps, and three second-round picks, as reported by ESPN. Ball, son of Big Baller Brand CEO LaVar Ball, debuted in the NBA in 2020 with the Hornets, the same year his older brother Lonzo was drafted. He was named the 2020-21 Rookie of the Year and has been described by ESPN as a "tremendous offensive engine" and among the top five offensive players in the sport based on per-possession impact. The move has reportedly caused frustration among Hornets fans, who view Ball as a player capable of leading the team to future success, according to local outlet WCNC. Ball previously purchased a home in Charlotte from NFL legend Cam Newton approximately two years prior to this trade.