Uptown Charlotte, February 19, 2026
Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball was involved in a two-car accident in Uptown Charlotte. While he was unharmed, one individual from the other vehicle sustained minor injuries. The crash occurred at the intersection of Trade and Tryon streets shortly before 5 p.m., with significant damage seen on Ball’s custom Hummer. Following the incident, Ball was seen leaving the scene in a different vehicle, prompting discussions about his actions post-collision.
Charlotte: NBA Star LaMelo Ball Involved in Two-Car Collision in Uptown
Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball was involved in a two-car collision in Uptown Charlotte on Wednesday afternoon, February 18, 2026. While Ball himself was reported to be uninjured, one individual from the other vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital. The incident occurred at the intersection of Trade and Tryon streets shortly before 5 p.m.
Details of the Incident
The collision involved Ball’s custom-made 2022 GMC Hummer EV and a gray Kia sedan. Reports indicate that Ball was traveling westbound on Trade Street and attempted an unprotected left turn onto the one-way Tryon Street when his vehicle collided with the Kia, which was traveling eastbound on Trade Street. Video footage obtained by local media showed Ball, dressed in an aqua-colored Hornets hoodie, exiting his damaged truck and then entering another vehicle, a Lamborghini, before being driven away from the scene.
The impact caused significant visible damage to Ball’s Hummer, including a missing left front tire. Both vehicles involved in the incident were subsequently towed from the scene. Emergency medical personnel confirmed that one person involved in the crash received minor injuries and was taken to a medical facility. The identity of this individual was not immediately disclosed.
Law enforcement officers were present at the location of the accident; however, an official police report detailing the circumstances of the crash and confirming the drivers involved was not immediately made available.
Immediate Aftermath and Team Status
The accident took place just hours after the Charlotte Hornets had concluded their team practice. The team is scheduled to host the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, February 19, 2026, marking their return to play following the NBA All-Star break.
LaMelo Ball, an All-Star and former Rookie of the Year, is currently sidelined due to a calf injury, with his last game appearance on February 11, 2026. His status with the team remains unchanged following the collision. Despite no major injuries reported for Ball, his swift departure from the crash site and subsequent entry into a different luxury vehicle has drawn some public discussion regarding his actions post-incident.
Broader Context of Athlete Incidents
This incident adds to a history of professional athletes in Charlotte being involved in road accidents. Notably, former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton fractured his back in a 2014 crash near Bank of America Stadium, less than a mile from where Ball’s accident occurred. Additionally, in 2024, Panthers backup quarterback Andy Dalton sustained a thumb injury in a separate two-car accident in the city.
Key Details of the LaMelo Ball Car Collision
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Wednesday, February 18, 2026 |
| Time of Incident | Shortly before 5 p.m. |
| Location | Intersection of Trade and Tryon streets, Uptown Charlotte |
| Vehicles Involved | Custom 2022 GMC Hummer EV (driven by LaMelo Ball) and a gray Kia sedan |
| Injuries to LaMelo Ball | Uninjured |
| Other Injuries | One individual sustained non-life-threatening injuries |
| Vehicle Status After Crash | Both vehicles towed from the scene; Ball’s Hummer had a missing left front tire |
| Police Report Availability | Not immediately available |
| LaMelo Ball’s Team Status | Currently sidelined with a calf injury; status unchanged |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
LaMelo Ball Uninjured in Uptown Charlotte Crash
LaMelo Ball Involved in Car Crash in Downtown Charlotte
LaMelo Ball Returns After Eye Injury to Lead Hornets Victory
Author: HERE Charlotte
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