LaVar Bal. Image via: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The outspoken and charismatic father of basketball stars
Lonzo, LaMelo, and LiAngelo Ball—
LaVar Ball, recently had his right foot amputated following a serious medical issue. The news, first reported by TMZ Sports on Wednesday, has yet to be publicly addressed by LaVar or his sons. However, despite the health issue, sources confirm that the 57-year-old remains in great spirits.
LaVar Ball amputated his right foot after serious health crisis
Lonzo Ball, LaMelo Ball, LiAngelo Ball and LaVar Ball. Image via: Joshua Blanchard / Getty Images
LaVar Ball has long been a popular figure in the sports world who made his name known for his larger-than-life personality and relentless promotion of his sons. He co-founded the Big Baller Brand, which gained attention for launching signature shoes for the Ball brothers and making headlines with its ambitious $3 billion price tag for a deal with major sneaker companies. However, his recent health battle has brought a different kind of attention to the Ball family.According to TMZ Sports, LaVar underwent the amputation procedure on Wednesday afternoon. Though details surrounding the medical issue remain undisclosed, reports indicate that the father of basketball stars and musician Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo Ball, is handling the situation quite well. A recently surfaced photo of LaVar smiling post-surgery showed his positive attitude as he fought back despite the life-altering event.So far, none of the Ball brothers have publicly addressed their father’s surgery. LaMelo Ball is currently playing for the Charlotte Hornets, while Lonzo Ball, who plays for the Chicago Bulls, has been dealing with his own injury struggles. LiAngelo Ball, though never making an NBA roster, has been pursuing a career in music.Given LaVar’s history of fiercely supporting his sons, fans have no doubt that his family is rallying around him during this time. While he has kept a lower profile in recent years, LaVar remains a strong presence in their lives. Before becoming a household name in the basketball world, LaVar Ball had his own journey as an athlete. He played college basketball at Cal State-Los Angeles and had brief stints with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers during his attempt at a professional football career.Though he has drawn criticism for his bold proclamations— such as claiming he could beat Michael Jordan one-on-one— LaVar has also been praised for his dedication to his sons’ success. He created the Big Baller Brand, which sought to disrupt the sneaker industry by giving young athletes an alternative to mainstream endorsement deals.Also Read: NBA Drama Unfolds: LiAngelo Ball's Ex-Girlfriend Nikki Mudarris Exchanges Jabs With His New Baby Mama After Cheating Allegation: "You can keep him"Fans are waiting for comments from the Ball family detailing LaVar’s health crisis and what led to the amputation of his right foot. However, details surrounding the incident are yet to be revealed. Regardless, it appears that he is now out of any danger and dealing with his recovery.