News Article
Published
Oct 22, 2026 at 11:13 AM EDT
LaMelo Ball is defending himself after a missed travel call became one of the most talked-about moments of his Minnesota Timberwolves debut.
The controversy even drew a reaction from his older brother, Lonzo Ball, who had little interest in defending him.
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The play came during Minnesota's 131-106 win over the Miami Heat on Wednesday. LaMelo finished with 21 points and six assists.
But a step-back three-pointer in the second quarter quickly went viral after replays appeared to show him taking several extra steps before shooting.
Lonzo joined the conversation on social media, posting a reaction to his younger brother's move.
“Travel lmaoooo”
LaMelo addressed the controversy during an appearance on ESPN's SC @ Night. He argued that he was letting the ball guide his movement and insisted the play should not have been called a travel.
“My mans was just talking about it and I cussed his [expletive] out on the bench because I said ‘if you watch, I let the ball guide. If I’m letting the ball guide and not touching it, you can take as much steps as you want.’ It’s not a travel.”
When asked about Lonzo's post, LaMelo made it clear he was not impressed with his brother's public reaction.
“He hating. He hating. He hating. See, I got to give him a call right now cuz with the family, he know what he’s supposed to do. Even if I’m wrong, I’m right. That’s how it go. I got to teach that boy.”
Still, the Timberwolves will be pleased with LaMelo's overall performance. His scoring and playmaking helped Minnesota open the season with a convincing victory.
The Timberwolves will next face the Orlando Magic on Friday, October 23, at 7 p.m. ET. Minnesota will look to build on its season-opening win over Miami as LaMelo Ball continues adjusting to his new team.