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Referees Union Calls LaMelo Ball Travel on Four Steps

By Drooid · Oct 22, 2026, 11:05 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

LaMelo Ball Travel

NBA Referees Union said LaMelo Ball traveled by taking four steps after gathering the ball.
Broadcasters Mike Breen and Richard Jefferson called the play a travel in real time.
Lonzo Ball mocked the travel call on social media with “Travel lmaoooo.”
Minnesota Timberwolves beat Miami Heat 131-106 in the 2026-27 opener, with Anthony Edwards scoring 45 points.

Summary

Ball Boosts Minnesota

Ball arrived in Minnesota in July via a four-team trade that sent Naz Reid to the Timberwolves.
The trade paired Ball with Anthony Edwards, creating a backcourt to boost Minnesota’s offense.
Minnesota opened the 2026-27 season with a 131-106 win, a 25-point margin showing early chemistry.
Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 35 for the Heat while Minnesota’s defense limited the team.
Naz Reid joined Minnesota, adding veteran depth after the July trade.

History

Historical Context

In 1995, the Minnesota Timberwolves selected Kevin Garnett with the third overall NBA pick, propelling the franchise to its first playoff berth in 1997. Garnett averaged 22.9 points and 9.6 rebounds that rookie season, while the team posted a 26-16 record, the best in franchise history. Similarly, the 2026-27 opener saw LaMelo Ball flagged for a travel, and a four-team trade paired him with Anthony Edwards, echoing 1995’s franchise-shaping moves. The parallel underscores how strategic acquisitions and rule enforcement can reshape team dynamics, suggesting Minnesota may sustain its offensive surge and contend for future titles.

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LaMelo Ball Travel

NBA Referees Union said LaMelo Ball traveled by taking four steps after gathering the ball.
Broadcasters Mike Breen and Richard Jefferson called the play a travel in real time.
Lonzo Ball mocked the travel call on social media with “Travel lmaoooo.”
Minnesota Timberwolves beat Miami Heat 131-106 in the 2026-27 opener, with Anthony Edwards scoring 45 points.

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