Charlotte Hornets star point guard LaMelo Ball has made a significant impact off the court this season by turning his on-court success into support for pets in need. Through the Humane Society of the United States’ “Points for Pets” initiative, Ball’s 1,184 points during the 2024-2025 NBA regular season translated into an impressive 296,000 meals for pets living in historically marginalized communities across the country.
The Points for Pets program, launched at the start of the season, pledged that for every point Ball scored, 250 pet meals would be donated to families struggling to feed their animals. As an ambassador for the Humane Society’s More Than a Pet initiative, Ball, known for his passion for animals and as a proud owner of five dogs, helped shine a spotlight on the needs of pet owners facing financial hardship.
Back in January, Ball had already tallied 873 points, equating to 218,250 meals. With the season now concluded, his final total stands at 1,184 points, surpassing expectations and significantly increasing the reach of the program.
Amanda Arrington, the Humane Society’s Vice President of Access to Care, emphasized the real-world impact of the program earlier this year: “We see how much people will do to take care of their pets, and how they often sacrifice their own meals or essential services to ensure their pets are healthy and happy. Being able to provide meals through this program is such a relief to so many people.”
The initiative highlights a critical issue: many families, particularly in underserved areas, face difficult choices when it comes to caring for their pets. Rising costs of living and limited access to affordable pet care can leave beloved companions at risk of hunger or abandonment.
Ball’s involvement goes beyond simply lending his name; his performance on the court directly translated into support for vulnerable pets, exemplifying how sports figures can drive meaningful community change.
For those interested in supporting local pets, the Humane Society of Charlotte and CMPD Animal Care & Control provide resources and guidance on fostering and adoption. Both organizations maintain online resources to help individuals welcome animals into loving homes, either temporarily or permanently.
What’s Next?
The Humane Society of the United States plans to continue the Points for Pets program in future seasons, and Ball’s contribution this year has set a high bar. With thousands of meals delivered to pets in need, the initiative has underscored the power of partnership between athletes and nonprofits to address real challenges faced by pet owners in America.
Why It Matters: As pet ownership continues to rise across the country, programs like Points for Pets help bridge the gap for families facing financial hurdles, ensuring no animal goes hungry. Ball’s contribution serves as a reminder of the powerful role athletes can play in fostering community well-being, both on and off the court.
For more information on adopting or fostering pets in the Charlotte area, visit the Humane Society of Charlotte and CMPD Animal Care & Control websites.
