Photo by Graham Hodges, CC BY 2.0

By: Audrey W.

The Ball brothers—Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo—rose to fame through a mix of basketball talent, media attention, and their outspoken father, LaVar Ball. Their journey to stardom began in Chino Hills, California, where they dominated high school basketball, playing an exciting, fast-paced style that caught national attention.

Lonzo, the eldest, was the first to make waves, leading UCLA to a strong NCAA season before becoming the second overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. His flashy passing and high basketball IQ made him a fan favorite. LiAngelo, the middle brother, had a more unconventional path, playing overseas after a shoplifting incident in China ended his UCLA career. LaMelo, the youngest and arguably the most famous, gained attention for his deep shooting range and confidence. He played professionally in Lithuania and Australia before being drafted third overall in the 2020 NBA Draft, quickly becoming an NBA star.

A significant part of their fame came from LaVar Ball, who created the Big Baller Brand and frequently made bold claims about his sons’ greatness. His marketing skills, combined with their talent, helped build a massive following.

Today, Lonzo and LaMelo have cemented themselves in the NBA, while LiAngelo continues to pursue professional opportunities. Their unique paths, combined with their entertaining style of play and media presence, have made them some of the most talked-about basketball siblings in history.

Works Cited

D’Souza, Alyssa. Alyssa D’Souza. 27 Jan. 2025, brockpress.com/the-rise-of-the-ball-family-empire.