Afternoon Observer: Feb. 26 Kristen Kornbluth, The Charlotte Observer
Feb. 26 Happy Friday, Charlotte. Kristen here, realizing I spoke too soon about the nice weather yesterday as I glance at the upcoming forecast. Will you be spending your rainy weekend at home? Or will you venture out into the water-logged outdoors? Let me know what you re thinking of doing.
Let s talk about today s news:
1. Vaccine events in Mecklenburg this weekend
North Carolina is currently offering vaccines to health care workers, residents and staff at long-term care facilities and anyone age 65 and up. On Feb. 24, the state opened up vaccine appointments to educators, including child care workers, K-12 teachers and school support staff. So where can you get a vaccine if you re eligible?
Sekou Smith, NBA Writer and NBA TV Correspondent, Dies at 48
Smith started working for the NBA in 2009Daniel Goldblatt | January 26, 2021 @ 4:20 PM Last Updated: January 26, 2021 @ 4:32 PM
Sekou Smith, an award-winning NBA writer who also worked for NBA TV, has died, the league announced Tuesday night. He was 48.
Turner Sports released a statement that read, “We are all heartbroken over Sekou’s tragic passing. His commitment to journalism and the basketball community was immense and we will miss his warm, engaging personality. He was beloved by his Turner Sports and NBA friends and colleagues. Our deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones.”
Charlotte Hornets head coach James Borrego was critical of Ball’s poor play over the last few games. Ball got benched by Borrego in the fourth quarter of a loss to Chicago on Friday.
Hornets HC James Borrego explains why LaMelo Ball is playing limited minutes By Erin Walsh | Last updated 1/24/21
LaMelo Ball has hit a bit of a rough patch in the midst of his rookie campaign with the Charlotte Hornets. However, his struggles might have hit a low point on Friday.
During a 123-110 loss to the Chicago Bulls, Ball had seven points, two assists, two steals and one rebound. However, he also had a season-high five turnovers off the bench.
Hornets head coach James Borrego provided a brutally honest critique of Ball s recent struggles, saying he needs to be better off the bench.