From “Glass Ankles” to Iron Man: Steph Curry Advises LaMelo Ball on Career-Saving Adjustment
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 1, 2026 — The scoreboard at the Spectrum Center read 132-125 in favor of the Golden State Warriors on New Year’s Eve, but the most significant exchange of the night didn’t happen during the 48 minutes of regulation. It happened quietly, behind the scenes, between two franchise point guards who share a dazzling playstyle—and a troubling history of ankle instability.
Following his 26-point performance in his hometown, Stephen Curry revealed that Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball has privately reached out to him for guidance on conquering the recurring ankle injuries that have plagued his young career.
The Student Approaches the Master
For casual fans, Curry is the unnappable sharpshooter who revolutionized basketball. But NBA historians remember the early days: the “glass ankles” narrative that nearly derailed his career before it began. Between 2011 and 2012, Curry underwent multiple surgeries that cast doubt on his future.
Now, LaMelo Ball finds himself at a similar crossroads. Despite a brilliant 27-point outing against the Warriors on Wednesday (including 7-of-10 from deep), Ball’s availability remains his biggest question mark.
“Yeah, he’s reached out,” Curry told reporters when asked about Ball. “We haven’t been able to connect specifically on what he can do. But I know he’s seen stuff that I’ve talked about.”
The “Q” Connection
Curry highlighted a crucial link between the two guards: Quinton Sawyer. Sawyer, a former member of the Hornets’ training staff, has extensive experience working with elite guards and was part of the Team USA support staff last year.
“Q… was with us at Team USA last year,” Curry noted. “I think there’s been a little bit of just conversational [exchange].”
This connection is vital. Curry’s turnaround wasn’t magic; it was a radical shift in biomechanics. Early in his career, trainers taught Curry to load his hips rather than his ankles when changing direction—a fundamental relearning of how he moved. If Ball is seeking this specific “proprietary” knowledge, he is looking in the right place.
Why This Matters
The parallels between the two are undeniable. Both possess elite handles, deep range, and a frame that can be compromised by the torque they apply to their lower body.
Curry (Early Career): Missed 40 games in 2011-12; signed a discounted extension due to injury risks.
Ball (Current Status): Has missed significant time in consecutive seasons due to ankle sprains.
If Ball can replicate Curry’s regimen—strengthening the posterior chain to relieve pressure on the ankle ligaments—he could salvage a Hall of Fame trajectory that is currently at risk of being cut short.
