If LaMelo Ball can’t grow up, it’s time to go | Opinion

For six seasons, Hornets fans suffered through LaMelo Ball’s “shenanigans” and believed if we just embraced LaMelo as LaMelo, he would grow up and into an extraordinary Hornets legend.

We got it wrong and what he really needed was some tough love.

So here it is:

Mr. Ball needs to grow up. After six years, the Hornets still can’t trust him to make good decisions and to do the right thing when it matters most. He still acts like a reckless teenager on and off the court.

The Hornets need a team leader who wants to compete out of love of the game and love of the city. Mr. Ball needs to take time to think about his why. Why does he want to be a Hornet? If his reasons are for more celebrity, money, and power, then it is time to go.

Stacey Brink, Charlotte

Who does Franklin Graham serve?

Franklin Graham,

It is not inconceivable that a pope would preach peace. That is consistent with the Word.

After he did, based on reports from early April 2026, U.S. defense officials reportedly reminded a top Vatican diplomat about the Avignon Papacy. Then Donald Trump stops funds to Catholic Services for migrant children.

Where is the Word and God’s will in your hierarchy? Who do you serve?

Jacqueline Briscoe, Hickory

High-paid substitutes

As an engaged and active CMS parent, I am certainly hopeful, that all 22 CMS “executives” from the Observer article on salaries will be substitute teaching in CMS classrooms on May 1 so that 22 educators can actively participate in the Kids over Corporations Rally in Raleigh.

Chad Kelley, Charlotte

Tim Moore doublespeak

In his response to my concerns about public lands, Congressman Tim Moore wrote that the Great Smoky Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Appalachian Trail are “enduring symbols of our commitment to history and shared legacy” and that protecting them “sustains local economies.” His newsletters highlight trail groundbreakings, greenway funding, and Western North Carolina’s outdoor identity as an asset to the world — most recently as a selling point for hosting the G20 Finance Ministers meeting in Asheville.

Then he voted for a Congressional Review Act resolution overturning federal protections for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, opening it to sulfide-ore copper mining with well-documented risks to clean water and wildlife. When I asked about it, his office said he doesn’t sit on the relevant committees — as though a floor vote carries no responsibility.

You can’t champion the outdoor economy in one breath and gut wilderness protections in the next.

Joe Lancaster, Davidson

Harry Potter play

I was recently surprised to see the inclusion of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” in the 2026-2027 season for the Blumenthal Arts Center. While I obviously recognize the popularity of the series and was a dedicated fan of the books and movies for decades, that all changed upon learning of author J.K. Rowling’s financial contributions to organizations that seek to strip the rights away from our trans community. Not only has she supported these organizations financially, but she has also become a spokesperson against the trans community, often making disparaging and demeaning comments publicly.

As a theatre promoting Broadway theatre, feeding the “Harry Potter” machine may seem like a logical choice to increase customer growth and revenue. However, as a performing arts venue, where trans people are found in every facet of the industry, what message are you sending them?

Mickey Stone, Charlotte

Excessive speeding

In response to “An excessive speeder killed my wife. North Carolina can do better” (April 21):

David Counter’s wife was killed by a driver driving at 85 in a 55.

It is not uncommon to see school buses, CATs buses, off duty rire trucks as well as everyday drivers far exceed the posted speed limit especially on secondary roadways.

These Intelligent Speeding Assistance devices should be mandatory for these reckless, speeding drivers just as the alcohol devices are mandatory for some who drive while intoxicated. Speeding and reckless driving is rampant on Charlotte streets – not just main streets but on small residential streets.

C Ryder, Charlotte