The NBA has ruled on Friday that Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball must alter a part of his appearance. This is a surprising decision, given that Ball is one of the most recognizable players in the NBA.
The player tattooed right below his left ear, the initials “LF” which is short form for his middle name LaFrance. He later chose to use that name for his clothing brand.
The NBA’s decision to ban LaMelo Ball from displaying the “LF” logo on his headband is based on a league policy that prohibits players from exposing commercial logos on their bodies, According to ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski.
Wojnarowski stated further that Ball has had conversations with the league regarding the tattoo, but to no avail. He has now begun to cover up the tattoo since Tuesday’s game against Miami heat, and is expected to do same for Friday night’s game against the Milwaukee Bucks
Tim Frank the NBA spokesman made statement to ESPN on the matter, saying that the league “tries to enforce the rule reasonably”, but Ball’s tattoo is seen as an “obvious violation”.
“Per the [collective bargaining agreement], players are prohibited from displaying commercial logos or corporate insignia on their body or in their hair during games. We try to enforce the rule reasonably, in accordance with its purpose, and taking into account players’ efforts to express themselves in a non-commercial manner. But LaMelo Ball’s neck tattoo is in obvious violation of the rule and, accordingly, he’s required to cover it.”
It’s interesting to see that many fans are sympathetic to LaMelo Ball’s situation, understanding that the tattoo has personal significance to him. They feel that the NBA should make an exception in this case, as the tattoo is not a typical commercial logo but rather a reflection of Ball’s identity.
It seems the NBA’s decision to require Ball to cover up his tattoo may end up promoting his clothing brand, thereby making it more popular. This wouldn’t be the first time a player has been forced to cover up a logo; Lonzo Ball, LaMelo’s brother, also had to cover a “Big Baller Brand” tattoo in 2018.
insightful
Thanks Sir