LaVar Christopher Ball (born October 23, 1967) is an American businessman, media personality, and former professional athlete. He is best known as the co-founder and CEO of Big Baller Brand, a sports apparel company, and the founder of the Junior Basketball Association (JBA). LaVar rose to national prominence through his outspoken nature, bold claims regarding his sons’ basketball abilities, and his controversial comments in the sports media landscape.
LaVar is the father of three sons: Lonzo Ball, a point guard for the Chicago Bulls; LaMelo Ball, a point guard for the Charlotte Hornets; and LiAngelo Ball, who has recently signed a $13 million record deal with Def Jam as a hip-hop artist. Despite his sometimes polarizing reputation, LaVar is widely credited with creating a family empire through basketball and business. In February 2025, LaVar underwent a right foot amputation due to a serious medical issue, but reports indicate he remains in high spirits following the procedure.
In this article, we will explore LaVar Ball’s net worth, age, height, weight, early life, career, family, relationships, business ventures, physical appearance, health updates, and lesser-known facts. We will also address his controversies, media presence, and impact on sports culture.
LaVar Ball Short Details
| Full Name | LaVar Christopher Ball |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | LaVar Ball |
| Profession | Businessman, CEO of Big Baller Brand |
| Hometown | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Date of Birth | October 23, 1967 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 57 |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 250 lbs (113 kg) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Notable Achievements | CEO of Big Baller Brand, Founder of JBA |
| Other Info | Father of NBA stars Lonzo & LaMelo Ball |
Early Life and College Basketball Career
LaVar Ball was born to Anderson and Maria Ball in South Los Angeles, California. He grew up with four brothers—LaFrance, LaValle, LaRenzo, and LaShon—and two sisters. At Canoga Park High School, LaVar excelled in both basketball and football, breaking the school record with 316 rebounds in a single season.
He attended West Los Angeles College, where he played college basketball, before transferring to Washington State University, where he averaged 2.2 points and 2.3 rebounds per game. After one season, he moved to Cal State Los Angeles, playing alongside his brothers. LaVar majored in criminal justice, aspiring to become a U.S. Marshal.
College Basketball Statistics
| Year | Team | GP | FG% | RPG | APG | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1987–88 | Washington State | 26 | .404 | 2.3 | 1.0 | 2.2 |
Professional Football Career
Although known for basketball, LaVar Ball briefly pursued a career in professional football. He played tight end for Long Beach City College before signing with the New York Jets as a defensive end in 1994. He also had a stint with the London Monarchs in the World League of American Football (WLAF) and later joined the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad. However, his professional football career ended without any regular-season appearances due to injuries.
Business Interests and Big Baller Brand
Big Baller Brand
LaVar Ball co-founded Big Baller Brand (BBB) in 2016, a sports apparel company that gained fame for its high-priced sneakers and association with his sons. The ZO2 sneakers, priced at $495, generated widespread media attention. Despite early criticism, BBB became a significant player in the sports apparel market.
However, the brand faced challenges when Alan Foster, a co-founder, was accused of embezzling $1.5 million from Lonzo Ball’s accounts, leading to Lonzo cutting ties with him. Despite this setback, LaVar continued to push the brand, with plans for new product releases in 2025.
Junior Basketball Association (JBA)
LaVar founded the Junior Basketball Association (JBA) in 2018 as an alternative to college basketball, offering high school graduates an opportunity to earn money while playing professionally. The league gained attention for its unique model, although it ceased operations in 2019.
Family and Relationships
LaVar Ball married Tina Slatinsky in 1997. The couple has three sons, all of whom have pursued professional careers:
- Lonzo Ball – Point guard for the Chicago Bulls, recently signed a $20 million contract extension.
- LiAngelo Ball – Transitioned to a music career, signing a $13 million record deal with Def Jam after his hit single “Tweaker.”
- LaMelo Ball – Star point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, signed a five-year, $203+ million contract extension.
Family Details
| Family Member | Role |
|---|---|
| Tina Ball | Wife (married since 1997) |
| Lonzo Ball | Son, NBA Player (Chicago Bulls) |
| LiAngelo Ball | Son, Hip-Hop Artist (Def Jam) |
| LaMelo Ball | Son, NBA Player (Charlotte Hornets) |
Physical Appearance
LaVar Ball is known for his towering presence and charismatic personality. Standing at 6 ft 4 in and weighing 250 lbs, he maintains a strong athletic build. In February 2025, LaVar underwent a right foot amputation due to a serious medical issue. Despite the procedure, he remains in great spirits, showcasing his trademark resilience.
Physical Appearance Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 250 lbs (113 kg) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Distinguishing Feature | Right foot amputated (2025) |
LaVar Ball Net Worth and Income Sources (2025)
As of 2025, LaVar Ball’s net worth is estimated at $12 million. His primary income sources include:
- Big Baller Brand (BBB): Profits from apparel, sneakers, and merchandise sales.
- Media Appearances: Frequent guest spots on sports talk shows and reality television.
- Reality Television: Income from the Facebook Watch series “Ball in the Family”.
- Endorsements and Public Speaking: LaVar is a sought-after speaker for sports and entrepreneurship events.
Net Worth and Income Table
| Net Worth (2025) | $12 Million (USD) |
|---|---|
| Primary Income Sources | Big Baller Brand, TV Shows, Public Speaking |
| Additional Income Streams | Investments, Sponsorships |
Lesser-Known Facts About LaVar Ball
- LaVar aspired to become a U.S. Marshal before pursuing sports.
- His favorite basketball player growing up was Charles Barkley.
- LaVar claims he could beat Michael Jordan one-on-one.
- He has four brothers and played college basketball alongside them.
- LaVar once trained his sons using flag football to develop agility.
- His wife, Tina Ball, suffered a stroke in 2017 and continues recovery.
- LaVar served as head coach for his sons’ games during their stint in Lithuania.
- The Big Baller Brand shoe ZO2 was criticized for its $495 price tag.
- He created the JBA as an alternative to NCAA basketball.
- LaVar wants his sons Lonzo and LaMelo to reunite in Los Angeles—but with the Clippers, not the Lakers.
FAQs About LaVar Ball
- Q: What is LaVar Ball’s net worth in 2025?
A: LaVar Ball’s net worth is estimated at $12 million. - Q: What happened to LaVar Ball’s foot?
A: In February 2025, LaVar underwent a right foot amputation due to a serious medical issue but is reportedly in great spirits. - Q: Who are LaVar Ball’s children?
A: His sons are Lonzo Ball (Chicago Bulls), LiAngelo Ball (Def Jam recording artist), and LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets). - Q: What is Big Baller Brand?
A: Big Baller Brand (BBB) is a sports apparel company co-founded by LaVar Ball, known for premium-priced sneakers and merchandise. - Q: Did LaVar Ball play in the NFL?
A: LaVar was on the practice squads of the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers but never played a regular-season NFL game. - Q: What is the Junior Basketball Association (JBA)?
A: The JBA was a basketball league founded by LaVar as an alternative to college basketball, offering salaries to high school graduates. - Q: Has LaVar Ball been involved in any controversies?
A: Yes, LaVar has been involved in controversies related to sexist remarks, a feud with President Donald Trump, and his media comments. - Q: What is LaVar Ball’s height and weight?
A: LaVar Ball is 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) tall and weighs 250 lbs (113 kg). - Q: What reality show features LaVar Ball?
A: “Ball in the Family”, airing on Facebook Watch, features LaVar and his family. - Q: What are LaVar Ball’s plans for his sons?
A: LaVar expressed a desire for Lonzo and LaMelo to reunite with the LA Clippers, although it remains unlikely.
Conclusion
LaVar Ball remains one of the most polarizing yet influential figures in sports and business. From building the Big Baller Brand empire to raising two NBA stars, LaVar’s impact on sports culture is undeniable. Despite recent health challenges, including the amputation of his right foot, LaVar continues to inspire with his resilience and determination.
His legacy extends beyond basketball—LaVar Ball represents the power of belief, family unity, and entrepreneurship. Whether loved or criticized, LaVar Ball remains an iconic figure who changed how sports families navigate fame, fortune, and business.
Disclaimer
“NOTE: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to verify the details independently from reliable sources.”
