LaVar Ball, the controversial father of basketball stars Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo Ball, has spoken publicly for the first time since undergoing a foot amputation.
News of the 57-year-old’s surgery surfaced earlier this week, though details of his medical condition remain undisclosed. Despite the significant procedure, Ball is reportedly in “good spirits,” according to TMZ.
LaVar makes fun of himself! LaMelo ‘s dad trying to joke fter being threatened with death.
On Friday, he proved that claim to be true by addressing the situation on TikTok, appearing in a video for user Primby with his trademark confidence and humor.
A signature LaVar response
“Everyone heard what happened, and y’all can take my foot, but you know what you can’t take? That Primby account,” Ball joked, smiling at the camera.
He then broke into a chorus of Tweaker, his son LiAngelo’s viral rap hit. Ball has frequently collaborated with Primby on videos in recent weeks, and this latest appearance reaffirmed his larger-than-life personality.
The former Big Baller Brand CEO was also seen Thursday alongside his youngest son, LaMelo, ahead of the Charlotte Hornets‘ win over the Lakers. In an Instagram story, LaMelo shared a photo of himself with his father, who was using a knee scooter for support.
“Seen my dawg b4 da game it was only right i love u pops 5L,” the 23-year-old wrote, marking the first public acknowledgment from any of Ball’s sons regarding his surgery.
The Ball family’s evolving legacy
LaVar Ball first gained national attention with his ambitious claims about his sons’ NBA careers, famously predicting that all three would play for the Los Angeles Lakers. While only Lonzo was drafted by the team, he later moved to the Pelicans and now plays for the Chicago Bulls.
Meanwhile, LaMelo has emerged as a star for the Hornets, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2021, while LiAngelo has pivoted to music. His rap career took a major leap in January when he signed an $8 million deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, with the potential to rise to $13 million.
Despite his sons’ successes, LaVar has not been without controversy. From bold NBA proclamations to his past headline-making remarks on ESPN and Fox Sports, he has remained a polarizing figure in the sports world.
Now, even in the face of personal adversity, it’s clear that LaVar Ball’s outspoken nature and larger-than-life persona remain unchanged.
