LaMelo Ball Reveals to Shaquille O’Neal Which Former Los Angeles Star He Models His Game After

LaMelo Ball is one of the most talented young stars in the league right now. Ever since he has joined the NBA, he has blessed the community with flashy assists and highlight reels to remember. LaMelo has to be one of the best investments that Charlotte Hornets have made in the history of their franchise.

LaMelo Ball revealed which players he has modeled his game after. In a conversation with Shaquille O’Neal on NBA on TNT, he was asked the question of who he modeled his game after. Before asking the question, Shaq himself told LaMelo that he reminds Shaq of Penny Hardaway.

However, an even bigger influence on him was Jamal Crawford. LaMelo Ball said, “I mean, I go out there and try to be myself for real, but I’ve seen a lot of Jamal Crawford, Penny Hardaway, too. Mostly video games and stuff like that, seeing everything they’ll do in there. I’ll go outside try it.”

Penny Hardaway was the whole package when he came into the league. He was an all-around player who had superstar potential, just like LaMelo. Penny Hardaway has never won a championship, but was a two-time All-NBA First Team member and four-time NBA All-Star.

LaMelo’s game is surprisingly similar to Jamal Crawford. Jamal Crawford was often called the best ball handler in the league. LaMelo also has amazing ball-handling capabilities. He always puts on a show with his dribbling moves and ankle breakers. Jamal Crawford is one of the only two players to win the Sixth Man of the Year award three times.

LaMelo and Jamal are not just similar in terms of ball handling. Both of them also share a great court vision and veteran-level basketball IQ.

WATCH THIS STORY: Who is Ja Morant’s girlfriend?

LaMelo Ball’s current season

LaMelo Ball has been sending shock waves across the league with his performances. It is just his second year in the league. However, he plays with the confidence of a seasoned NBA player who has had over a decade of experience. LaMelo is extremely confident in his game.

LaMelo is averaging 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game. These are extremely good numbers for a sophomore. Moreover, his presence in the Hornets has made other players like Miles Bridges and Terry Rozier step up their game.

Their current record is 28-23 which makes them the number 7 seed in the Eastern Conference. It seems like LaMelo will lead the team to the playoffs with just a year of experience in the league.

What chances do you think the Charlotte Hornets have of winning the playoffs? Let us know in the comments.

READ MORE: Dennis Schroder, Who Rejected $84 Million From Lakers, Rumored To Exit Jayson Tatum Focused Boston Celtics