Uptown Charlotte, February 20, 2026
Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball was involved in a two-car accident in Uptown Charlotte, but fortunately emerged without injuries. The collision, which occurred near Trade Street and North Tryon Street, involved Ball’s custom Hummer and another vehicle, causing minor injuries to the other driver. Despite the crash, Ball participated in the Hornets’ subsequent game, contributing to the team’s ongoing performance amid a competitive NBA season.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball was involved in a two-car collision in Uptown Charlotte on Wednesday afternoon, an incident from which he emerged uninjured. The crash, which occurred shortly before 5 p.m. near the intersection of Trade Street and North Tryon Street, involved Ball’s custom-made Hummer and another vehicle. While Ball was unharmed, the driver of the other car sustained minor injuries.
The incident quickly drew attention, with videos circulating that showed Ball exiting his heavily damaged vehicle. He later departed the scene in a different car, a Lamborghini. Police were present at the accident site, though a formal report detailing the circumstances and potential citations has not yet been released.
Details of the Collision
The crash took place when Ball, reportedly driving his camouflage-colored 2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1, collided with a gray Kia sedan. Accounts indicate Ball’s Hummer was traveling west on Trade Street and attempted a left turn onto Tryon Street when the impact occurred with the eastbound Kia. The collision resulted in significant damage to both vehicles. Ball’s Hummer notably lost its front left tire, while the Kia sustained considerable damage to its front end.
Emergency services responded promptly to the scene. The driver of the Kia sedan was transported to a local hospital, having suffered minor, non-life-threatening injuries. Video footage from the scene showed the other driver calmly getting out of their vehicle and walking toward Ball’s truck. Both the Hummer and the Kia were subsequently towed from the location.
Ball’s Well-being and Immediate Aftermath
Despite the substantial damage to his vehicle, LaMelo Ball was confirmed to be uninjured in the crash. Following the incident, he expressed profound gratitude for his safety, attributing his escape from harm to good fortune and divine intervention. When asked about his departure from the scene, Ball stated that inquiries should be directed elsewhere.
The immediate impact on his professional commitments was minimal. Ball was listed as available and participated in the Charlotte Hornets’ game against the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, just one day after the collision. He contributed 11 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in the team’s 105-101 loss.
Team Performance and Broader Context
The Charlotte Hornets are currently navigating a competitive NBA season, holding a 26-29 record and sitting ninth in the Eastern Conference standings. The team has shown strong form recently, securing 10 victories in their last 11 games. Ball has been a significant contributor to this success, averaging 19.3 points and 7.4 assists this season.
This incident marks another instance of a professional athlete in Charlotte being involved in a road accident. Previous notable cases include former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, who fractured his back in a 2014 crash near Bank of America Stadium, and Panthers backup quarterback Andy Dalton, who sustained a thumb injury in a 2024 collision. Tragically, former Hornets guard Bobby Phills lost his life in a car crash in 2000.
Prior Incidents and Ongoing Investigations
Beyond the recent crash, public records indicate LaMelo Ball was previously involved in a motor vehicle-related incident. A 2024 lawsuit alleges that Ball’s car struck a woman’s son in October 2023 near the Spectrum Center. That civil case is reportedly ongoing as of February 2026, though no criminal charges were filed in connection with that earlier incident.
Authorities have not yet provided further details regarding the investigation into Wednesday’s crash, including what specific factors led to the collision or if any traffic citations will be issued. The team has not made an official comment on the situation. The focus remains on Ball’s continued health and his performance with the Hornets as the season progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to LaMelo Ball?
LaMelo Ball was involved in a two-car collision in Uptown Charlotte on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, shortly before 5 p.m..
Was LaMelo Ball injured in the car crash?
No, LaMelo Ball was not injured in the car crash and expressed gratitude for being unharmed.
Where did the car crash occur?
The car crash occurred in Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina, near the intersection of Trade Street and North Tryon Street.
What vehicles were involved in the collision?
The collision involved LaMelo Ball’s camouflage-colored custom-made Hummer, specifically a 2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1, and a gray Kia sedan.
Was anyone else injured in the crash?
Yes, the driver of the Kia sedan sustained minor, non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
Did LaMelo Ball leave the scene of the accident?
Yes, LaMelo Ball was seen exiting his damaged Hummer and then departed the scene in a Lamborghini.
Did the car crash affect LaMelo Ball’s playing status?
No, LaMelo Ball was available to play and participated in the Charlotte Hornets’ game against the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, one day after the crash.
Has a police report been made available?
A police report detailing the circumstances of the crash has not been immediately made available.
Key Features of the LaMelo Ball Car Crash Incident
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Wednesday, February 18, 2026, shortly before 5 p.m. | Local |
| Location of Incident | Uptown Charlotte, North Carolina, near the intersection of Trade Street and North Tryon Street | Local |
| Individuals Involved | LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets point guard) and driver of a Kia sedan | Local |
| LaMelo Ball’s Condition | Uninjured | Local |
| Other Driver’s Condition | Minor, non-life-threatening injuries; transported to a local hospital | Local |
| Vehicles Involved | LaMelo Ball’s custom-made Hummer (2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1) and a gray Kia sedan | Local |
| Vehicle Damage | Ball’s Hummer lost its left front tire and sustained major damage; Kia sustained significant front-end damage; both vehicles towed | Local |
| Police Report Status | Not immediately made available | Local |
| Impact on Playing Status | Played in Thursday night’s game against the Houston Rockets | Local |
| Previous Incidents (Ball) | 2024 lawsuit alleging hitting a woman’s son with his car in October 2023, case ongoing (State-level) | State-level |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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