Charles Lee reveals he thinks LaMelo Ball is only scratching the surface of his potential

Charles Lee reveals he thinks LaMelo Ball is only scratching the surface of his potential originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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LaMelo Ball spent the first six seasons of his NBA career with the Charlotte Hornets. For the last two seasons of his tenure in Charlotte, Charles Lee was a fantastic head coach and mentor for the talented point guard.

While Lee and Ball were finding their stride together, it seems the Hornets‘ front office was prepared to part ways. They are now building around Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller, but it seems Lee is still hopeful for Ball’s future with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Charles Lee is excited for LaMelo Ball’s further development in Minnesota

Despite the Hornets almost reaching the Playoffs in the 2025-26 season, it seems the organization wanted to move in a different direction. They finally have two promising wing players, so building around them is the optimal decision.

It is a new-look team without Ball and Miles Bridges. They were the mainstays of the previous regime, but it looks like the Hornets are prepared to enter a new era with Lee taking charge of this refreshed roster.

MORE: Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball are considered the best NBA backcourt

While Ball is headed to Minnesota, he fostered a strong relationship with Lee. It was a fruitful dynamic, as both of them got better within their roles. Now, they will have a bright future ahead of them.

“Man, it is hard. We built such a great relationship, Melo and I. I think personally and professionally… I think that he’s really just scratching the surface; I think there’s more for that young man to achieve,” Lee said while getting interviewed during an NBA Summer League game.

Lee is enjoying the refreshed roster now because he still has a promising group of players. He is ready to coach them to a better season in both halves of the campaign. They were superb in the second half of the 2025-26 season, but they will be looking to strengthen their consistency.

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