5 Biggest takeaways from Charlotte Hornets 2021-22 media day
By Jason Huber
LaMelo Ball has put on muscle and REALLY wants the No. 1 jersey
Just by looking at him at the podium, it was noticeable that LaMelo Ball has put on some muscle as he enters his second season in the NBA.
This was Ball’s first full offseason after being drafted last year due to the pandemic and not being able to be in the facility until right before the season, and you can tell he’s ready to take an even bigger step forward.
"“We’re not going to put a limit on anything this year… I’m definitely more comfortable now.” -LaMelo Ball"
He was scheduled to find out how much exact weight he’d put on following his media availability.
LaMelo Ball speaks… pic.twitter.com/BsZKXAAH7X
— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) September 27, 2021
The biggest story regarding Ball, however, was one that has been talked about ever since Malik Monk left to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Ball wants to change his jersey number from No. 2 to No. 1 but he missed the March deadline due to Monk being on the roster still.
"“I feel like number one is just me.” – LaMelo Ball"
LaMelo on his pursuit for No. 1 (the March deadline to change his number was missed) and wearing No. 2. pic.twitter.com/XfusWUPluB
— Rod Boone (@rodboone) September 27, 2021
He said he even had to delete a photoshopped picture of him that he posted wearing No. 1.
It seems unlikely that Ball will get the jersey change this season unless he pays big money to buy out the entire stock of his No. 2 jerseys in retail. However, it’s a fun storyline until the season begins.