Kyrie Irving is undoubtedly one of the NBA most influential players of his generation, known for his dazzling ball-handling, streetball flair, and creativity on the court. That same electrifying style is evident in Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball, who recently received high praise from the Dallas Mavericks guard.
During a live stream, Irving lauded Ball for handling the spotlight from a young age and thriving despite constant public scrutiny. “We were signed to the same agency, Roc Nation, but I got to see him from afar,” Irving said. “I also have a healthy admiration for somebody who has been in the public eye for that long and is still ultra-successful. One of the best things is when a kid actually achieves the unachievable while still being on camera all the time. I don’t know what that’d be like—to be on camera all the time like he was.”
Ball is no stranger to the spotlight. He first gained national attention at just 14 years old, appearing alongside his brothers, Lonzo and LiAngelo, and their outspoken father, LaVar, in the reality series Ball in the Family, which debuted in 2017. Now, in 2025, LaMelo is 23 years old and wrapping up his fifth NBA season with the Hornets.
Does LaMelo Ball mirror Irving’s style?
As mentioned earlier, Ball‘s flashy ball-handling and streetball-inspired creativity evoke memories of Irving at his best. Both players thrive in improvisational, playground-style basketball, maintaining their signature flair even on the NBA’s biggest stage.
LaMelo Ball #1 of the Charlotte Hornets watches his shot during the first half of a basketball game against the New York Knicks
Since entering the league, Ball has displayed an elite level of creativity, something Irving believes he may have had an influence on. “This young kid—if there was anybody watching a lot of my film and studying, he’s definitely one of them,” Irving said.
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The differences between Irving and Ball
Irving has crafted countless signature moments with the ball in his hands, earning widespread recognition as one of the most skilled players in NBA history. His ability to create space, maneuver through defenses, and finish near the rim remains unparalleled.
Ball, meanwhile, has his own unique approach to creating scoring opportunities. Whether through step-backs, lateral dribbles, or quick crossovers leading to a smooth floater, the Hornets star has developed into a dynamic offensive weapon in his own right.
While their styles may draw comparisons, both Irving and Ball bring something special to the game, each adding their own creative touch to the art of ball-handling and scoring.
