LaVar Ball's Foot Amputation: A Brief Overview of His Life, Family, and Legacy
LaVar Ball, the boisterous and outspoken father of NBA players Lonzo Ball and LaMelo Ball, recently underwent a serious medical intervention in which his right foot was amputated. The 57-year-old businessman and basketball figure was faced with a grave but undisclosed medical issue, one that led to this drastic medical intervention. LaVar remains in good spirits, as seen in recent public appearances at Charlotte Hornets and Chicago Bulls games.
LaVar Ball: A Polarizing but Influential Figure
LaVar Ball first gained a national reputation in the mid-2010s for his blunt declarations about the professional basketball careers of his sons. His aggressive and often combative statements propelled him into the spotlight of media scrutiny, making him one of the most talked-about figures in sports.
He founded Big Baller Brand (BBB), a sports footwear brand, in 2016 and dropped signature basketball shoes for all of his sons: Lonzo Ball's ZO2, LiAngelo Ball's Gelo 3, and LaMelo Ball's MB1. He also founded the Junior Basketball Association (JBA) in 2018 as an alternative to college basketball in an effort to provide young ballers with a professional pathway.
The Ball Brothers and Their Professional Basketball Careers
Lonzo Ball
Selected 2nd overall in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers.
Now in the Chicago Bulls after a two-year, $20 million contract extension signed in 2025.
Plagued by recurring knee injuries like a torn meniscus in 2018 and knee surgery in 2023, yet remains a valuable asset to his team.
Notable achievements: 2018 NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
LaMelo Ball
Selected third overall by the Charlotte Hornets at the 2020 NBA Draft.
Awarded the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2021 and voted an NBA All-Star in 2022.
Is still an up-and-coming star, averaging 27.3 points per game during the 2024-25 season, performing strongly against clubs like the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors.
Spent time playing for Illawarra Hawks in the Australian NBL before entering the NBA, where he was a 2020 NBL Rookie of the Year.
LiAngelo Ball
Even though he never had an NBA roster spot guaranteed, he played for teams like the Greensboro Swarm in the NBA G League.
He became popular as an artist, recording the rap song "Tweaker" that landed him a $13 million Def Jam deal.
Recently spotlighted at NBA All-Star Weekend 2025, making headlines for his off-court success.
Previously played for Lithuania's Vytautas Prienai with LaMelo Ball in 2018.
LaVar Ball's Athletic and Personal Life
Prior to achieving fame as the go-to dad man of basketball, LaVar Ball served as an athlete in his own right:
Played college ball on a scholarship at Cal State Los Angeles, averaging 2.2 points per game.
Briefly played for the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers of the NFL on their practice squad.
Founded Big Baller Media to promote his own brand and career, as well as those of his sons, on social media and reality television shows.
His own life has also been challenging. In 2017, his wife Tina Ball suffered a stroke, which left her with aphasia and half-paralysis. This was hard on the Ball family, and LaVar stepped out of the limelight to attend to her recovery.
Community and Fan Reactions
The amputation of LaVar's foot has brought sympathy and an upsurge of support from basketball enthusiasts and the basketball world. Social media platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and Instagram have been filled with words of encouragement and discussion regarding how tough he is. ESPN analysts and retired players like Charles Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal have commented on LaVar's impact on basketball culture.
Although he has a lot to say, the influence of basketball by LaVar cannot be overruled. His belief in his sons and his attempt at shaping their careers have inspired many young athletes and parents alike. ESPN's Stephen A. Smith recently praised LaVar's doggedness, stating, "Love him or hate him, LaVar Ball is one of the most influential figures in basketball over the last decade."
The Future for LaVar Ball
While this medical letdown is remarkable, it won't stop LaVar Ball from remaining in the limelight. His other entrepreneurial ventures, like Big Baller Brand, the Big Baller Podcast, and his reality show Ball in the Family, will certainly continue. And with Lonzo and LaMelo continuing to make headlines in the NBA, LaVar's presence will not diminish within the basketball community.
Conclusion
The life of LaVar Ball has been an up-and-down rollercoaster, from the success of his sons in the NBA to personal health problems. His drive and resilience have defined his professional life and career. While he recovers from his surgery, the sports world will certainly be paying close attention to what the future holds for the Ball family.
