In the first half, Adebayo took a hard fall, and a replay appeared to show Ball grabbing at Adebayo’s leg. The officials did not review the contact, and no technical foul or ejection was charged as a result.
After the game, Ball offered a public apology, explaining he was struck on the head and wasn’t sure what happened, and that he would check on Adebayo’s status to ensure he’s OK.
Ball also said he did not suffer a concussion and had not been evaluated for one, according to his remarks to reporters.
Adebayo later spoke, saying the incident “didn’t happen” and noting he would address it with Ball when they meet. He stressed there is no lasting bad blood between them and suggested uncertainty about Ball’s intentions remains.
From an officiating perspective, Adebayo indicated that a review likely wouldn’t have allowed him to return, given the injury, though the moment could have led to a for-cause ejection if viewed more clearly by officials. Ball was not suspended but was fined by the NBA.
The Heat’s season ends, while the Hornets advance to the next phase of the Play-In Tournament with Ball continuing to play. This sequence leaves a talking point about on-court conduct and its impact on teams in the closing stages of the season.
