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LaMelo Ball’s Debut Had Everything: 21 Points, A Blowout Win, And 4 Illegal Steps

LaMelo Ball started his Minnesota Timberwolves career with 21 points and six assists in a 131-106 win over the Miami Heat. Anthony Edwards scored 45 points, and Minnesota made 21 three-pointers to beat Miami by 25 points. But one shot…

By Zakir Hassan · Last Word on Sports

Published: Friday, 23 October 2026 at 5:31 PM

Key Things to Know

LaMelo Ball scored 21 points in his Timberwolves debut, but the NBA confirmed he illegally traveled on a three-pointer.
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Miami Heat 131-106 behind 45 points from Anthony Edwards.
The NBA Referees Association stated Ball took four steps instead of the permitted two after gathering the ball.

The Story in 60 Seconds

LaMelo Ball scored 21 points and added six assists in his Minnesota Timberwolves debut during a 131-106 victory over the Miami Heat. However, one of his made three-pointers sparked controversy after his brother Lonzo Ball pointed out a missed traveling violation, which the NBA Referees Association later confirmed occurred because LaMelo took four steps after gathering the ball.

Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 45 points and 10 rebounds as the Timberwolves hit 21 three-pointers. Despite Ball's explanation that his move was legal, league officials determined the shot should have been waived off, though the missed call did not impact the blowout win.

Read the full article on Last Word on Sports

LaMelo Ball’s Debut Had Everything: 21 Points, A Blowout Win, And 4 Illegal Steps

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