LaVar Ball, the outspoken father of Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball and Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball, had his right foot amputated due to a "serious medical issue," TMZ Sports reported Wednesday.
Ball underwent the procedure the same day and is reportedly in good spirits.
Ball, 57, has been a well-known figure in basketball circles since 2017, when Lonzo Ball became eligible for the NBA Draft.
He famously predicted that Lonzo would be drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, which came true when the team selected him with the No. 2 overall pick.
Beyond his sons' careers, Ball gained attention for bold claims, including saying he could beat Michael Jordan one-on-one and asserting that Lonzo was the best player on a Lakers team featuring LeBron James.
In 2016, Ball founded "Big Baller Brand," producing signature shoes for each of his sons—LaMelo, Lonzo, and LiAngelo Ball. The brand's website was briefly shut down in 2019 before reopening.
He also launched the Junior Basketball Association in 2017, where LaMelo and LiAngelo played.
LaMelo Ball is averaging a career-high 27.3 points per game for the Hornets this season. He was instrumental in beating Lakers on Thursday.
Lonzo Ball, after missing three years due to knee injuries, recently returned to the NBA with the Bulls.
LiAngelo Ball, who has yet to appear in an NBA game, last played in Mexico for Astros de Jalisco and has found success in music, performing at this year’s All-Star Weekend.
LaMelo and Lonzo Ball were both top-three picks in their respective NBA Drafts, in 2020 and 2017.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ