LaMelo Ball’s Fall Injures Bam Adebayo in NBA Play-In Tournament

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo left the team’s Play-In Tournament game with a lower-back injury. He exited in the second quarter after a collision involving Hornets guard LaMelo Ball.

The sequence of events

The play occurred with 11:10 remaining in the second quarter. LaMelo Ball attempted a floater that Simone Fontecchio blocked.

Adebayo saved the ball from going out of bounds. He redirected it back to Fontecchio to keep the possession alive.

As Fontecchio made the block, he made contact with Ball, who then fell to the court. Ball’s fall pulled at Adebayo’s leg as Adebayo tried to land. The contact forced Adebayo to go down and leave the game.

Official response and replay rules

No foul was called on the play. Officials did not assess a personal or flagrant foul.

Sideline reporter Cassidy Hubbarth explained why there was no review. The sequence included a change of possession and play resumed immediately. Once the game continues, officials cannot go back and review the prior sequence.

Reaction from the Heat and analysts

Coach Erik Spoelstra and several Heat players voiced frustration about the non-call. The team’s bench was visibly upset during the game.

At halftime, analyst Udonis Haslem said he believed Ball did not intentionally try to injure Adebayo. He called the incident “a little WWE” and described it as a split-second decision. Haslem also criticized officials for not calling any foul.

Game outcome and immediate impact

The Heat lost the matchup 125-124 in overtime. LaMelo Ball completed a game-winning layup to end the contest.

With Adebayo sidelined, second-year big man Kel’el Ware became Miami’s lone rotation center for now.

Player context

Adebayo is a three-time All-Star. He ranks among Miami’s leading scorers and top rebounders. He is also considered one of the team’s best defenders.

• The article noted he scored 83 points against the Wizards earlier this season.
• That performance was described as the second-highest scoring game in NBA history.

Filmogaz.com will provide updates as the Heat releases further information on Adebayo’s injury. The team’s medical evaluation and availability will determine the next steps.