LaVar Ball, the outspoken businessman and father of NBA stars Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo Ball, has always been a larger-than-life personality in the basketball world. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $4 million, built through Big Baller Brand (BBB), media appearances, and basketball ventures. However, recent headlines have focused on his health, as the 57-year-old recently underwent surgery that resulted in the amputation of his right foot.
Despite this significant setback, LaVar remains in high spirits, maintaining the same energy and confidence that made him a household name. But how did he build his fortune, and what does the future hold for him?
What Happened to LaVar Ball’s Leg?
The news of LaVar Ball’s right foot amputation was first reported by TMZ Sports, with viral images showing him in a wheelchair with a bandaged leg. While neither LaVar nor his family have officially confirmed the cause, speculation has been rampant. Many fans believe the condition could be linked to diabetes or another undisclosed medical issue, but no verified reports have been released.
Regardless of the reason, LaVar is tackling this challenge with his signature resilience, showing once again that setbacks won’t define him.
How Have Fans Reacted to LaVar Ball’s Surgery?
For a figure as polarizing yet entertaining as LaVar Ball, seeing him in a wheelchair was a shocking moment for basketball fans. Many took to social media to show their support, with messages ranging from heartfelt prayers to humorous takes that played on his entrepreneurial nature.
Some popular fan reactions included:
- “Sending prayers to LaVar Ball. Hope the Big Baller recovers quickly!”
- “That diabetes a mfer. Prayers for the big baller LaVar Ball.”
- “LaVar Ball about to release a BBB prosthetic leg and call it the ‘Big Baller Step-Up’ 🤣”
The mix of concern and humor reflects LaVar’s unique place in basketball culture—one where he is both respected and playfully trolled by the sports community.
How Did LaVar Ball Build His Net Worth?
1. Big Baller Brand (BBB): A Bold Business Move
LaVar launched Big Baller Brand (BBB) in 2016, introducing a premium apparel and sneaker company that promoted his three sons as the faces of the brand. The company made waves when it released the ZO2 sneaker for $495, sparking debates about pricing and marketing strategies.
Despite early buzz, BBB faced production and financial setbacks, including a fallout with Alan Foster, a business partner accused of mismanaging $1.5 million in company funds. However, LaVar refused to let BBB die, relaunching it with new designs and aggressive marketing in 2022.
2. The Junior Basketball Association (JBA): A Risky Investment
In 2018, LaVar attempted to revolutionize basketball with the Junior Basketball Association (JBA), a league designed to give high school players an alternative to college basketball. The league folded after one season, but it showed LaVar’s commitment to player development and his willingness to take risks.
3. Reality TV & Media Appearances
LaVar’s family reality show, Ball in the Family, was a huge success, running for six seasons. His bold statements on ESPN, Fox Sports, and other media platforms also helped him stay relevant and profitable, generating millions in ad revenue and merchandise sales.
How Successful Are LaVar Ball’s Sons in 2025?
LaVar Ball famously declared his sons would dominate the NBA, and while not all his claims came true, he was right about their potential.
- Lonzo Ball (27 years old) – Currently with the Chicago Bulls, though injuries have limited his playing time. His future remains uncertain due to knee issues.
- LiAngelo Ball (26 years old) – Still attempting to find a long-term role in professional basketball, bouncing between G League and overseas contracts.
- LaMelo Ball (23 years old) – The biggest star of the Ball family, face of the Charlotte Hornets, NBA Rookie of the Year winner, and a multiple-time All-Star.
Despite critics doubting LaVar’s bold claims, his relentless belief in his sons undeniably played a role in their basketball success.
How Does LaVar Ball Make Money Today?
Despite setbacks, LaVar continues to generate income through:
- Big Baller Brand sales – The revamped BBB still sells apparel and shoes, maintaining a loyal fanbase.
- Public appearances & speaking engagements – LaVar’s larger-than-life personality keeps him in demand for media appearances.
- Social media marketing – His viral moments generate brand deals and sponsorships.
- Reality TV projects – While Ball in the Family ended, new documentary-style content is in the works.
Though his net worth is not as high as top sports executives, his ability to stay in the headlines keeps his businesses alive.
What’s Next for LaVar Ball?
LaVar has never been one to sit back and accept defeat. His future plans likely include:
- Expanding Big Baller Brand – New product lines and partnerships could revive the brand’s mainstream appeal.
- A New Basketball Venture – He may revisit the idea of creating a league or training academy.
- A Health-Focused Initiative – Given his recent amputation, LaVar could launch a campaign raising awareness about diabetes and mobility issues.
- More Reality TV Content – With the Ball family still in the NBA spotlight, a new documentary or show could be on the way.
Even in the face of major health challenges, LaVar Ball remains resilient and determined, showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Final Thoughts: LaVar Ball’s Unbreakable Spirit
LaVar Ball’s journey from bold entrepreneur to basketball personality has been filled with ups and downs. With a net worth of $4 million, he has managed to stay relevant in a fast-moving industry, proving that confidence and determination can go a long way.
Even after losing his right foot, LaVar’s undeniable energy and business mindset suggest that he will turn this challenge into another opportunity. Whether through BBB, basketball ventures, or media appearances, he remains one of the most entertaining figures in sports culture.
And if history has taught us anything, never count out LaVar Ball—because he’s always got something up his sleeve.
