Ball posted 27 points (11-17 FG, 3-5 3Pt, 2-2 FT), four rebounds, five assists and one steal across 29 minutes during Friday's 125-116 loss to Portland.
While the Hornets fell behind early and the game was out of control early in the second half, it was an encouraging return for Ball, who was back in the lineup for the first time since Dec. 1 due to COVID-19 protocols. The second-year guard needed only 29 minutes to rack up 27 points and three three-pointers. Through 25 appearances this season, Ball now has now hit multiple threes 18 times. Heading into Sunday's game at Phoenix, Ball is averaging 20.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, 8.1 assists, 1.9 steals and 2.9 threes in 33.1 minutes.