In a significant boost for their offense, the Charlotte Hornets will have their star point guard, LaMelo Ball, available for their home game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday, December 29, 2025. The game is scheduled for a 7:00 PM ET tip-off at the Spectrum Center.
LaMelo Ball Cleared After Ankle Issues
The latest official NBA injury report shows no limitations for LaMelo Ball, confirming his full availability. This marks a positive step after earlier ankle problems sidelined him this season, including a five-game absence in November. His return provides the short-handed Hornets with crucial direction and creativity on the offensive end.
Ball has been in impressive form recently, averaging 22.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 7 assists per game while hitting an average of four three-pointers. As the team's primary playmaker, his consistent presence on the floor is vital for organizing Charlotte's game and creating scoring opportunities, especially with several key rotation players out.
Charlotte Hornets' Lengthy Injury List
The Hornets will still be significantly depleted. The team's injury report for December 29 lists multiple players as unavailable:
- Ryan Kalkbrenner is out with a left elbow sprain.
- Kon Knueppel is sidelined with a right ankle sprain.
- Mason Plumlee is out due to a right groin strain.
- Grant Williams continues his recovery from right knee surgery.
Additionally, Sion James is marked as questionable because of an illness. With this limited depth, the burden falls on players like Miles Bridges, who recently posted a strong line of 13 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. His chemistry with Ball will be essential if Charlotte hopes to compete.
Milwaukee Bucks Injury Status and Matchup Outlook
The visiting Milwaukee Bucks have their own injury concerns. Gary Trent Jr. is listed as questionable due to a left calf contusion, while Taurean Prince remains out following neck surgery. Alex Antetokounmpo is unavailable on a G-League assignment.
Critically, Giannis Antetokounmpo is not on the injury report and is expected to play. His presence gives Milwaukee a formidable interior advantage, forcing the Hornets to commit extra defensive resources. Ball's availability allows Charlotte to better control the tempo and spacing on offense, but Milwaukee will aim to use its size and physicality to wear down the undermanned Hornets over four quarters.
The game will be broadcast on NBA League Pass, FanDuel Sports Network Southeast, and Bally Sports Wisconsin.
