Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball was fined $100,000 by the NBA for using an anti-gay term during a postgame interview. The interview followed a victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.

The incident occurred when Ball was discussing the team’s defensive strategy on the final play, where he said, “We loaded up,” before lowering his voice and adding, “No homo.”

The league found the comment offensive and derogatory and delivered a hefty fine. The amount represents the maximum allowed under current NBA rules for such conduct during media interactions.

“Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball has been fined $100,000 for making an offensive and derogatory comment in a postgame interview, it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations,” a league statement reads.

Ball’s comments occurred following the Hornets’ 115-114 win over the Bucks on November 16 at Spectrum Center.

LaMelo Ball Fined The Max

While not offering a defense for Ball’s comment – he should know better with a camera in his face on national television – a maximum fine for that seems a little much.

Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas said the same exact phrase last season and was fined $40,000. Why the massive inflation for Ball?

Was Thomas’s comment somehow less “offensive and derogatory?”

Ball has been off to a red-hot start this season, averaging 29.7 points and 6.7 assists through 13 games.

He was being interviewed after the game against the Bucks because he sank two free throws at the end to seal the victory.

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Ball Responds After The Fine

Ball commented on the massive fine and took responsibility for his actions. Or words.

“Before we get started, I just want to address the comment yesterday,” he told reporters. “I really didn’t mean anything (by it) and don’t want to offend anybody. I’ve got love for everybody, and I don’t discriminate.”

First-year Hornets coach Charles Lee said the organization does not “condone” what was said. However, he also noted that Ball is “obviously very apologetic.”

“From what I’ve seen since I’ve been around him, he loves everyone. He’s a joy to have around the facility and it’s not typically how he operates,” said Lee. “He and I talked about the seriousness of the situation and how he needs to conduct himself going forward.”

Ball and the Hornets look to improve upon their 5-8 record against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday.

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