Charlotte Hornets guard Lamelo Ball (1) drives on Indiana Pacers forward Jarace Walker (5) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — LaMelo Ball said Friday he wants to stay with the Charlotte Hornets despite the team’s struggles and increasing speculation about his future from outside the organization.

“Yeah, I love being here,” Ball said following practice in Charlotte. “I ain’t saying nothing. I’m just trying to win, that’s it. That’s what we’re going to keep doing.”

Hornets coach Charles Lee said Ball, who became the team’s first max contract player in July of 2023 when he signed a $260 million deal , remains a cornerstone piece of the organization.

“He’s a huge, huge piece of what

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