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LaMelo Ball has hidden his 'LaFrance' tattoo, representing his fashion brand, that he had behind and just below his ear under reported pressure from the NBA Commissioner and the League.
It's thought to be in contravention of the NBA's rules on brand and product advertising outside of official partners, and in the Charlotte Hornets' game against the Miami Heat it was no longer visible although a clear mark of where it was remained.
It looks like LaMelo Ball might have been told by the NBA to cover up his new tattoo," James Plowright, editor for the All Hornets podcast, wrote on X.com (formerly Twitter. "The "LF" tattoo is also the logo for Ball's clothing brand "LaFrance.
"To be clear this is speculation, but it wouldn't surprise me as the NBA will have branding rules in place, there is a previous case with JR Smith."
LaMelo's fashion career
The 22-year-old headed to Pachucho Tattoo shop in California during the summer to get inked up in the logo of his own fashion brand 'LaFrance' or 'LF'.
The art is designed in the diploma font and it was one of three tattoos he got as a celebration for his most recent birthday in August ahead of the 2023-24 season.
He started the clothing line in 2020 before he was drafted by the Hornets and recently collaborated with PUMA in September to create a collection that was officially released on October 6.
He is currently being sued in a separate case for $200m by Alan Foster as part of his 'Big Baller Brand' alongside his father, LaVar Ball. It's at least the third lawsuit between LaVar and Foster, with the latter claiming infringements cost him over $200m in damages.
Who do the Hornets play next?
Following a 111-105 defeat to the Heat on November 15, the Hornets now possess an Eastern Conference record of 3-7 (.300) and are 13th in the standings.
They bid to get their season back on track against the Milwaukee Bucks at their home venue on November 17, with the Bucks proving a stern test by holding a 7-4 (.636) record and sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference.