When you think of basketball families, a few names come to mind—like the Currys and the Antetokounmpos. But the Ball family? They’re in a league of their own. With three talented brothers—Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo—who have all made waves in the basketball world, and a father, LaVar Ball, who has been their biggest supporter (and loudest promoter), this family is nothing short of legendary.
Who Are the Ball Brothers?
Lonzo Ball, born in October 1997, was the first to pave the way for his younger brothers. The now 27-year-old point guard plays for the Chicago Bulls but has struggled with injuries in recent seasons. Despite that, his impact on the game is undeniable. His younger brother, LiAngelo Ball, now 26, took a different path, recently joining the Astros de Jalisco in Mexico’s professional league after facing setbacks in his basketball career. The youngest, LaMelo Ball, born in 2001 and now 23, is the most successful of the trio, shining as the Charlotte Hornets’ franchise player and even earning an NBA All-Star selection.
How Did LaVar Ball Shape Their Careers?
LaVar Ball is the mastermind behind the Ball dynasty. He had a vision early on that his sons would become basketball superstars. He and his wife, Tina Ball, were both college basketball players at Cal State Los Angeles, and LaVar firmly believed their genes would produce future NBA stars.
In fact, he even joked in an interview that he picked Tina not just for love but for her 6-foot height! LaVar has never been shy about his ambitions, once telling ESPN, “Speak it into existence. Keep talking about it until it happens.” And he did just that—turning his sons into household names.
What Is the Ball Family’s Net Worth in 2025?
The Ball family has made millions through basketball contracts, endorsements, and their former brand, Big Baller Brand (BBB). As of 2025:
- Lonzo Ball has a net worth of approximately $30 million, thanks to his NBA contracts and endorsement deals with Puma and other brands.
- LaMelo Ball has skyrocketed to an estimated $50 million net worth, bolstered by his NBA salary and lucrative endorsements, including his signature Puma shoe line.
- LiAngelo Ball, while not as financially successful as his brothers, has accumulated around $5 million through overseas contracts and minor endorsement deals.
- LaVar Ball, despite BBB facing ups and downs, still boasts a $10 million net worth, largely due to media appearances and investments.
Did All Three Ball Brothers Go to UCLA?
While all three Ball brothers committed to UCLA, only Lonzo actually played there. He had a standout freshman season before declaring for the NBA Draft. LiAngelo, however, never played a game due to a shoplifting incident in China that led to his suspension. Rather than waiting it out, LaVar pulled him from UCLA, and he later pursued a professional career overseas.
LaMelo, the youngest, verbally committed to UCLA at just 13 years old. However, his decision to play professionally in Lithuania and later Australia, along with signing a shoe deal, made him ineligible for NCAA competition.
What Happened to Tina Ball?
Tina Ball, the matriarch of the family, suffered a severe stroke in February 2017 that left her with lasting speech and mobility challenges. Throughout her recovery, LaVar remained dedicated to her well-being, assuring his sons, “You all do what y’all do. I got your mama.”
Despite her health struggles, Tina has remained a strong presence in the family, attending games and supporting her sons. LaVar’s unwavering love and support for her have been evident over the years, proving that, despite his sometimes over-the-top personality, family always comes first.
How Did LaMelo Ball Make NBA History?
LaMelo Ball isn’t just famous because of his last name—he’s an elite talent. When he was drafted third overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 2020, he and Lonzo became the first set of brothers in NBA history to both be drafted in the top three picks.
LaMelo wasted no time proving himself, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2021 and making the All-Star team in 2022. His flashy passing, deep three-pointers, and undeniable confidence have made him one of the most exciting young players in the league today.
Did the Ball Family Have a Reality Show?
Yes! The Ball family had their own reality show, “Ball in the Family,” which aired on Facebook Watch from 2017 to 2020. The show documented Lonzo’s transition to the NBA, LaMelo’s rise, and the family’s business ventures, all while showcasing their unique family dynamic. It gave fans an inside look at LaVar’s larger-than-life personality, Tina’s recovery journey, and the brothers’ day-to-day lives.
Are Lonzo and LiAngelo Ball Fathers?
Yes! Lonzo became a father in 2018 when he welcomed his daughter, Zoey Christina, with his longtime girlfriend, Denise Garcia. Their journey into parenthood was even featured on “Ball in the Family.”
LiAngelo followed in his big brother’s footsteps and had his first child, LaVelo, with reality TV personality Nikki Mudarris in 2023. When asked about fatherhood, LiAngelo shared that his brothers were thrilled about becoming uncles.
Will All Three Ball Brothers Ever Play on the Same NBA Team?
This is LaVar’s dream—to see all three of his sons on the same NBA team. Back in 2021, he told Fox Sports, “Nobody has ever built a franchise around a family. That’s why I’m saying, do something new.”
While it hasn’t happened yet, it’s not entirely out of the question. LaMelo is still young, and Lonzo, if healthy, could have many years left in the league. If a team is willing to take a chance on LiAngelo, we might just see LaVar’s ultimate prophecy come true.
