The Charlotte Hornets haven't given fans much to cheer about lately. But LaMelo Ball is still worth the price of admission, even when the scoreboard isn't pretty.

Since being drafted third overall in 2020, Ball has become the face of Charlotte's NBA franchise—and arguably the most exciting player to wear a Hornets uniform since the original Charlotte era. His no-look passes, deep three-pointers, and playground creativity have made Spectrum Center a destination even when the team's record suggests otherwise.

Last season, Ball averaged 23.9 points and 8.0 assists per game before a fractured ankle cut his year short. When healthy, he's one of only a handful of players in the league who can genuinely change a game's momentum in a single quarter. The problem is that 'when healthy' qualifier has become a recurring theme.

The Hornets finished last season with a 21-61 record, good for fourth-worst in the NBA. They've missed the playoffs in seven of the last eight seasons. The roster around Ball remains a work in progress—promising young pieces like Brandon Miller and Mark Williams show flashes, but consistency has been elusive.

Still, there's something compelling about watching Ball operate. He plays with a joy that's increasingly rare in professional sports. Whether he's throwing behind-the-back passes in transition or pulling up from 30 feet with complete confidence, he's the kind of player who reminds you why you started watching basketball in the first place.

The franchise is clearly betting on him long-term. Ball signed a five-year, $260 million extension in 2023, making him the highest-paid player in Hornets history. The pressure to build a winner around him is mounting, especially with new ownership taking over and promising changes.

Insider tip: If you're going to catch a game, sit in the upper bowl sections 201-204. You'll save significant money over lower bowl seats while still having a great view of Ball's full-court vision. Weeknight games against non-marquee opponents often have tickets available for under $30 on the secondary market. Also, arrive early—Ball typically goes through his elaborate pre-game routine about 45 minutes before tipoff, and it's worth watching.

The Hornets' season runs from October through April, with home games at Spectrum Center in Uptown. Even in a down year, watching LaMelo Ball create something out of nothing remains one of Charlotte's best sports experiences.