Minnesota’s LaMelo Ball traveled on a 3-pointer in the second quarter of the Timberwolves’ win over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night, according to the referees’ association, which posted a clip to clarify the call.
The referees’ union wrote in a post on X: “For everyone asking, ‘how is this legal?’ It’s not!” The union added, “He gathers with his right foot on the floor and would be permitted two steps by rule (left-right). He takes four steps after gathering the ball and travels.”
Ball’s brother, seven-year NBA veteran Lonzo Ball, made the same call moments after the play.
In a postgame television interview, LaMelo Ball, who was making his Minnesota debut, was told that his brother had called the traveling violation. He still insisted he had not committed one. “He hatin’. He hatin’,” LaMelo Ball said. “See, I gotta give him a call right now, cause with the family, he knows what you’re supposed to do. Even if I’m wrong, I’m right. That’s how it goes.”
The disputed shot broke a 39-39 tie. However, it did not play a major role in the outcome. LaMelo Ball finished with 21 points, and Minnesota won 131-106.