While the Ball family is widely known for its basketball dynasty and the outspoken personality of LaVar Ball, one key figure has remained largely behind the scenes-Tina Ball.
As a wife, mother, and former athlete, she has played a significant role in shaping the family but has largely avoided the spotlight.
This week, the Ball family made headlines once again after reports emerged that LaVar had undergone a foot amputation due to a serious yet undisclosed medical condition. Despite the major procedure, the 57-year-old is said to be in “great spirits.” However, neither his three sons-Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo-nor his wife Tina have spoken publicly about his condition.
Tina Ball’s athletic background and family life
Born in December 1968, Tina Ball was an accomplished basketball player in her own right, competing at Cal State Los Angeles. It was through sports that she met LaVar, and their relationship required LaVar to prove his dedication-at one point even delivering her homework to the hospital after she had appendix surgery.
The couple married in 1997 and soon built a family destined for the sports world.
Their three sons-Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo-were born between 1997 and 2001 and quickly rose to prominence in basketball. Under LaVar’s ambitious vision, they became one of the most talked-about families in sports. Lonzo was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2017 but later moved to the New Orleans Pelicans before joining the Chicago Bulls.
LaMelo, the youngest, was selected third overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 2020 and went on to win NBA Rookie of the Year. Meanwhile, LiAngelo has stepped away from basketball to pursue a music career, securing a multi-million-dollar deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group in early 2024.
LaVar Ball has built a reputation for making bold claims, including predicting that all three of his sons would play for the Lakers. He also founded the “Big Baller Brand” and has been a constant media presence.
In contrast, Tina has remained a private and steady force in the family, rarely making public statements despite attending her sons’ games. Even amid LaVar’s recent health concerns, she continues to stay out of the spotlight, reinforcing her role as the quiet foundation of the Ball family’s success.
