Tag: Bismack Biyombo

WATCH: Hornets teammates congratulate LaMelo Ball on winning Rookie of the Year

After LaMelo Ball was announced as the Rookie of the Year on Wednesday, the Hornets released a video of Ball’s teammates congratulating him.

LaMelo Ball was announced on Wednesday as the league’s Rookie of the Year, putting to end a month’s worth of speculation since the Hornets’ season came to an end. While the announcement was a memorable moment for Ball and the franchise, it also long considered inevitable as well.

Ball captured the first three Rookie of the Month awards in the Eastern Conference before going down with his wrist injury. His return helped seal him winning the award as he finished with 84 first-place votes of a possible 99 and appeared no lower than second on any ballot.

Given the expected nature of the announcement, the Hornets prepared a video of Ball’s teammates this season congratulating him on winning the Rookie of the Year award. The video is highlighted by Bismack Biyombo telling him to both put a shirt on and listen to better music.

The Hornets posted the video to Twitter shortly after the award was officially announced.

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Miles Bridges says LaMelo Ball is providing Hornets energy while injured

A constant figure on the sideline since his injury, LaMelo Ball has provided the Hornets with a boost of energy from the bench.

Miles Bridges’ poster dunk against the Hawks over Clint Capela on Sunday drew all kinds of warranted attention on social media as one of the best plays of the season. Take a look in the background or watch the replay from a different angle and you’ll notice LaMelo Ball in the background, jumping off the bench in celebration.

Ball has been a constant figure at the Hornets home games since his wrist injury, often positioned on the front row of the bench ready to launch into the air.

On Sunday, he did just that as Bridges launched into and through Capela. Credited with changing the culture around the franchise, Ball’s presence has provided a lift to the team.

“It’s great,” Bridges said. “It’s always great having LaMelo around just because of the type of person he is. He’s always positive energy and I feel like we can feel that on the court, too, as well, just having guys on the bench that’s supportive.

“Everybody knows that LaMelo’s dying to get out there and play but for him to just be a great teammate, it’s good to have him here.”

Ball has not been limited to cheering on from the bench during Hornets games. He’s become a more active participant in pregame, including doing workouts with his left hand prior to Sunday’s game.

On Tuesday, he was again taking part in pregame shootaround, this time having more fun by hoisting 3-pointers left-handed (via Number1isBest/Reddit).

Ball isn’t the only player that’s been around during his injury. Gordon Hayward was spotted on the bench as well. For the Hornets, it’s part of building their culture.

“I think it’s always great to have — whether it’s LaMelo back, whether it’s Gordon Hayward — guys that are hurt just being around the team supporting other guys,” Bismack Biyombo said, “because we treat ourselves as family. So, whenever the next guy goes down, you have to make sure you’re there for the guy that’s playing and support them. I think we’ve done a tremendous job at that and that’s the culture we’re trying to build here and we’re going to continue to stay on that path.”

The original timeline for Ball was four weeks in a cast before being re-evaluated and potentially beginning rehab. That four-week date arrives early next week, around April 20, which could give the Hornets a big boost in their playoff push.

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Bismack Biyombo touts LaMelo Ball’s ability, willingness to learn and adjust game

Bismack Biyombo recently spoke about LaMelo Ball’s willingness to not only ask questions but implement those changes into his game.

During LaMelo Ball’s brief time in the NBA, he has quickly gained a reputation for being a willing learner. Multiple teammates and head coach James Borrego have noted his eagerness to ask questions and learn the game at a greater level.

More than simply asking questions, though, Ball has expressed an equal willingness to make improvements to his game. Bismack Biyombo, who has been one of the closest teammates to Ball, recently talked about Ball’s desire to not only ask questions but implement those changes into his game.

“I think probably asking more questions and understanding the game a little more,” Biyombo said. “Because when you play overseas versus the NBA, it’s two different types of basketball. I think he’s really good at picking up things fast and implementing them into the game.”

There is a notable difference between a player willing to ask questions and take advice and a player that is willing to make those changes to his game. Ball not only showing a desire to ask questions but to also use those answers to improve his game is a trait that will only allow him to continue to improve.

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Bismack Biyombo touts LaMelo Ball’s ability, willingness to learn and adjust game

Bismack Biyombo recently spoke about LaMelo Ball’s willingness to not only ask questions but implement those changes into his game.

During LaMelo Ball’s brief time in the NBA, he has quickly gained a reputation for being a willing learner. Multiple teammates and head coach James Borrego have noted his eagerness to ask questions and learn the game at a greater level.

More than simply asking questions, though, Ball has expressed an equal willingness to make improvements to his game. Bismack Biyombo, who has been one of the closest teammates to Ball, recently talked about Ball’s desire to not only ask questions but implement those changes into his game.

“I think probably asking more questions and understanding the game a little more,” Biyombo said. “Because when you play overseas versus the NBA, it’s two different types of basketball. I think he’s really good at picking up things fast and implementing them into the game.”

There is a notable difference between a player willing to ask questions and take advice and a player that is willing to make those changes to his game. Ball not only showing a desire to ask questions but to also use those answers to improve his game is a trait that will only allow him to continue to improve.

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Two big highlights for Miles Bridges: A massive two-handed dunk and a ridiculous no-look pass

Charlotte Hornets star and former Spartan Miles Bridges found Bismack Biyombo for an excellent no-look pass on Thursday.

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Miles Bridges is one of the few players who will make a play that has me wondering: “Have I ever seen that been done before?”

On Thursday, the former Michigan State standout did that twice for the Hornets. First when he posterized Raptors forward Chris Boucher. Then again when he hit Charlotte Hornets teammate Bismack Biyombo with a crazy no-look over-the-shoulder pass for a nice bucket.

Here is the dunk:

And here is the crazy pass:

He had 12 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists, and a steal for the Hornets in their loss to the Toronto Raptors.

 

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Bismack Biyombo not surprised by immediate success of ‘little brother’ LaMelo Ball

As LaMelo Ball continues excelling in his first month as an NBA player, veteran teammate Bismack Biyombo is unsurprised with his success.

Bismack Biyombo heard about the short clip floating around the internet following the end of the Hornets-Pelicans game on Friday. In it, a joyful LaMelo Ball is shown celebrating Charlotte’s win before turning to Biyombo, who gives the rookie a shove as the two jostle before continuing with post-game pleasantries with teammates and opponents.

To some, it looked like previously unspoken tension boiling over between the two. Biyombo, though, couldn’t help but laugh when asked about it on Monday.

“We actually laugh about it because it’s funny for the media,” Biyombo said, “they would take that and they would transform it into whatever they want to transform it into. But for us, we know what it is so it’s like ‘Do we really have to talk about this?’

“That’s my little man. We always have fun. I think even last game, we were talking like ‘You see, we have to stop playing too much. People taking it a little too far.’ But I think for us at the same time, we just show how close we are, you know?”

Biyombo and Ball’s relationship is nothing new as the veteran big man quickly took the rookie guard under his wing in the preseason. That bond showed itself on the court in the preseason and has not waned in the regular season, regardless of how many out-of-context 30-second videos may be shared.

Their relationship is also indicative of one of the strongest aspects of the Hornets this season in their chemistry.

“You see we are playing, trusting each other, we play with each other on and off the court,” Biyombo said. “I think that’s the biggest part for us of our success is just that everybody gets along. There’s no ego, you know what I mean? And that goes a long way as we continue to grow and head in that direction. Everybody respects each other, but we still have fun with each other. And I think that’s a big part.

“But, again, it’s my little brother and I think we have fun and that’s the most important thing,” he continued on Ball. “We’re continuing to grow and helping the team win and at the end of the day everybody’s goal is to try to win a ball game.”

The wins have started to pile up this season with Charlotte winning three straight following a weekend sweep of the Pelicans and Hawks. Ball has had more than a helping hand in those games, flirting with a triple-double on Friday before notching one on Saturday, becoming the youngest player in league history to record one.

Biyombo, though, is not surprised by how quickly Ball has taken to the league. On Monday, he reiterated a point made early in the season of Ball’s experience playing professionally previously having a big impact on his success.

“I think I said it earlier (in the season), I think that he was able to go overseas and become a pro at an early age and then coming into the league, it’s an easy transition,” Biyombo said. “But obviously, it’s not surprising and I think is going to continue to improve. It’s going to continue to play better. But he’s just a fun kid. He’s happy, he works hard and he listens so you can only expect great things from him.”

Ball’s success has been paramount in the Hornet’s success in their three-game win streak. But if he steps out of line, his big brother Biyombo will be certain to get him right back in order.

Bismack Biyombo taking rookie LaMelo Ball under his wing during preseason

Through just the first two weeks of the preseason, a relationship between Bismack Biyombo and LaMelo Ball has already started to form.

Bismack Biyombo recalls entering the league a decade ago as a 19-year old, fresh off a season in Spain’s professional league. Back then, the Congolese big man gravitated toward veterans Boris Diaw and DeSagana Diop, a connection at least partially formed out of their ability to speak French.

Nearly 10 years later, Biyombo is making sure the Hornets rookie are getting the same kind of welcome that he once received. One particular player, though, has so far gotten the lion’s share of his focus, at least publicly, in LaMelo Ball.

Head coach James Borrego has noticed them in practice, in games, in the film room. While he’s huddled with the team or breaking down film or diagramming a play, Biyombo has an arm around Ball, answering questions from the inquisitive Ball.

“I love what I’m seeing, the partnership there, the mentorship,” Borrego said. “That’s huge for LaMelo, his growth, but he’s very engaging. He wants it. He loves that connection with his teammates, with his coaches. Obviously, (Biyombo) is one of those guys that’s willing to embrace that role and mentor a young player like this. It’s a great relationship. I get a kick watching them from afar.”

During the team’s first two preseason games, Biyombo could be seen on the sideline talking to Ball during timeouts or on the bench. He laughs when asked about the interactions, unaware that that people were watching him.

“I think it’s just being able to help him because I came in at the age he is and he’s a very good listener,” Biyombo said. “He asks a lot of questions. (The rookies are) good listeners. They listen. The only thing we can do is try to get better each and every game as a team and they’re helping me, as well, to get better. It’s a family and we continue to grow.”

Ball has been a receptive player through his fist weeks in the NBA, eager to ask questions and make connections with teammates on and off the court.

“It’s definitely amazing having somebody look out for you like a big brother,” he said. “It’s a blessing.”

Biyombo said Ball’s willingness to learn stems from having already spent a year playing professionally in the NBL, opening him up to the wife of a professional.

“To be honest, for him…being able to be a professional athlete at an early age,” he said, “that helps a lot because…you learn faster which is what happened to me and a lot of guys that come from Europa or overseas because you are a professional athlete. You’re treated like a pro and live like a pro. So, he got to learn that at an early age and I think helped him a lot as he comes into the league, adjusting and blending in with the NBA style of playing.”

It’s not an unfamiliar role for Biyombo to serve as a mentor. He was largely brought back to the Hornets late this off-season with that role in mind. It was also a duty he undertook last season with Malik Monk.

With Ball, along with the other rookies, he views his ability to be a mentor as an appealing aspect of being on the team.

“I’ve always felt comfortable enough to be around guys and talking to guys,” Biyombo said. “To me, it’s a fun process. Not only push to get better yourself but you help people around you be better, I think that’s what leadership is about. You can’t just focus on yourself to get better. You have to help other people be better as well and we have great rookies, man.

“We have great rookies. I’m really excited for them. This is going to be a fun year for all of us.”

WATCH: LaMelo Ball throws full-court outlet pass for assist in first NBA game

LaMelo Ball hit the ground running for the Hornets in his first unofficial NBA game on Saturday, throwing a full-court outlet pass for an assist.

LaMelo Ball hit the ground running on Saturday night in his first unofficial NBA game. In the preseason opener for the Charlotte Hornets against the Toronto Raptors, Ball came off the bench but still made an instant impact.

The rookie guard tallied seven rebounds and two assists in the first half in 9:46 of action. His prettiest play of the half, though, was a full-court pass to Bismack Biyombo for an assist. While Fox Sports Southeast cameras missed out on the play initially, the NBA grabbed footage of the play and shared it on Twitter and the played lived up to the hype.

Ball took the in-bounds pass and, all in one motion, threw a one-handed football pass from inside the free throw line on the opposite end of the court, hitting Biyombo in stride for the layup.

Ball helped the Hornets jump out to a 19-point first quarter lead before the Raptors roared back to take a 58-51 lead at the half. Through the first half, Ball had yet to score and attempted just three shots, two of those three-pointers.

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Bismack Biyombo on first impression of LaMelo Ball: ‘He’s a funny kid’

Bismack Biyombo is the latest Charlotte Hornets veteran to come away impressed with rookie LaMelo Ball.

Bismack Biyombo is the latest Hornets veteran to come away impressed with rookie LaMelo Ball. As one of the veterans of the Hornets roster, Biyombo has taken the de factor mentor role with the team.

Like nearly every other teammate before him, Biyombo has been pleasantly surprised with Ball during his first week with the team. When asked about the rookies and Ball, Biyombo chose to discuss Ball off the court instead of on.

“He’s a funny kid,” he said. “That’s the first thing I notice. He’s a funny kid. I think he blends in with a crowd. I think you can put him anywhere and he blends in. He has a good personality and I like that about him. I think those were the first things I noticed.”

Biyombo’s comments came after practice on Thursday. On Friday, Terry Rozier had a similar comment on Ball, stating one of his biggest takeaways from the preseason has been the happiness Ball is taking the court with.

While Ball will certainly provide a boost to the team on the court, it is becoming increasingly clear that his demeanor off the court will impact the team as well. His light-hearted, happy-go-lucky attitude will keep the team loose and will keep the game fun as well.

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Hornets eyeing playoff push following additions of Gordon Hayward, LaMelo Ball

After the acquisitions of Gordon Hayward and LaMelo Ball, the Charlotte Hornets are looking at a potential return to the playoffs.

Cody Zeller and Bismack Biyombo may not consider themselves veterans but despite being 28 years old, the pair of big men represent two of the oldest players on the roster and two of the only players with playoff experience. In fact, as Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer noted, Zeller is the only player remaining from Charlotte’s last playoff team in 2015-16.

Following the signing of Gordon Hayward and drafting LaMelo Ball with the No. 3 pick, the Hornets find themselves as a dark horse candidate to make the playoffs once more. Add in the addition of a play-in tournament this season, giving both the ninth and tenth seeds in the Eastern Conference chances at making the playoffs and Charlotte should be in the mix next season, even if

“I think that’s where we’re headed,” Zeller said of the playoffs. “We’ve made some big moves, obviously, in the last couple of weeks. Adding Gordon obviously helps (as) another veteran guy with experience. I haven’t had the chance to play with LaMelo yet but, obviously, someone who’s taken with the third pick should add a lot to the team. I think we made some big moves.

“I think it’s a little too early to tell but I think it’s definitely a roster you look at on paper and think we should be right back in the playoff mix. It’s exciting to see after a long year last year, obviously. Hopefully, things are looking up.”

Under the playoff format of the upcoming season, the Hornets would have found themselves in the play-in tournament as the 10th seed when the season ended for them in March. Washington’s poor showing in the bubble saw them actually fall below the Hornets in the final standings based on win percentage.

With no departure of note from the team’s roster, the top seven scorers returning and the additions of Ball and Hayward, it makes sense the team could be thinking playoffs now.

“I think every year, every team looks like a team that could be in the playoffs,” Biyombo said. “Now, we just have to go out there and make it happen. I think the young guys, we have the mentality…in the right place and it’s very exciting going into training camp. As we start this, we all got to continue to be on the same page which is important. I think we have a chance but now we just have to go out there and make it happen.

“I’m very excited. It’s a good opportunity for a lot of people, for our young guys and it’s a new year for everybody. I look forward to it.”

The first step in making the playoffs will be the start of training camp on Friday with the team’s first preseason game coming barely a week later on Saturday, Dec. 12. Those will be the first tests of a franchise looking to return to the postseason with new acquisitions in tow.

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