The Phoenix Suns have decided against pursuing Charlotte Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball, league sources told The Arizona Republic on Thursday, June 25, 2026, amid widespread rumors of trade discussions involving the All-Star playmaker.
The clarification from team sources emerges after reports indicated several NBA franchises began actively targeting the 24-year-old guard following the 2026 NBA Draft.
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Charlotte signaled a willingness to enter a roster rebuilding phase, prompting immediate trade inquiries from external front offices.
ESPN reporter Shams Charania previously reported that "multiple teams" are actively pursuing the one-time All-Star, noting that Ball does not want to remain with the Charlotte organization.
Contract and Performance
The point guard currently has three years and $130.7 million remaining on his five-year, $203-million contract.
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Drafted third overall by the Hornets in 2020, Ball holds career averages of 20.8 points and 7.3 assists per game, having recently helped Charlotte reach the play-in tournament with a 44-38 record.
Despite lacking a traditional point guard last season, Phoenix plans to remain largely unchanged for the upcoming year.
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Guard Devin Booker previously stepped into the primary playmaking role, leading the Suns with 26.1 points and six assists per game during the 2025-26 season.
