Gelo Ball Net Worth, The Journey Of The Ball Family’s Underrated Star

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LiAngelo Ball, an American professional basketball player, has an estimated net worth of $800,000 as of 2024. Known for being part of the famous Ball basketball family, he has played in the NBA G League and had brief stints with the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets. Although he hasn’t had a sustained NBA career like his brothers Lonzo and LaMelo, LiAngelo continues to pursue his basketball aspirations while maintaining his relevance in the sports world.

Early Life and Family Background

LiAngelo Robert Ball was born on November 24, 1998, in Anaheim, California. The 25-year-old is the middle child of LaVar and Tina Ball, both of whom were college basketball players. His father, LaVar, became a well-known media personality and businessman, heavily promoting his sons’ basketball careers.

Growing up, LiAngelo played competitive basketball with his brothers, Lonzo Ball (currently with the Chicago Bulls) and LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets star). He attended Chino Hills High School, where he played a crucial role in leading the team to a state championship alongside his brothers. His scoring ability and three-point shooting were standout aspects of his game, making him a key player in Chino Hills’ nationally recognized dominance.

UCLA Controversy and International Basketball Journey

LiAngelo initially committed to playing college basketball at UCLA, but his time there was cut short due to an international shoplifting incident in China in 2017. Accused of stealing sunglasses from a Louis Vuitton store, Ball was suspended indefinitely from the UCLA basketball team. Instead of waiting for reinstatement, he left the program and turned professional.

In 2018, LiAngelo and his younger brother LaMelo signed with Prienai, a team in the Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL). While his stint overseas was brief, it provided him with professional experience. After his time in Lithuania, he played for the Los Angeles Ballers in the Junior Basketball Association (JBA), a league founded by LaVar Ball. LiAngelo led the Ballers to a championship, earning JBA Finals MVP honors.

G League and NBA Attempts

Despite his success in alternative basketball leagues, LiAngelo struggled to find a foothold in the NBA. He signed with the Oklahoma City Blue, the G League affiliate of the Oklahoma City Thunder, in 2020, but the season was cut short due to the pandemic. Later that year, he signed a non-guaranteed contract with the Detroit Pistons, but was waived before the start of the regular season.

In 2021, Ball was invited to work out with the Charlotte Hornets at the request of his brother, LaMelo. His performance in the NBA Summer League was impressive, particularly a game where he hit five three-pointers in just 16 minutes. As a result, he signed another non-guaranteed contract with the Hornets in October 2021, only to be waived the following day.

Ball then played for the Greensboro Swarm, the Hornets’ NBA G League affiliate, where he had a strong debut, scoring 22 points. In 2022, he rejoined the Hornets for another Summer League appearance, signed yet another non-guaranteed contract, but was once again waived before the start of the season. Despite these setbacks, he continues to develop his game and seek another opportunity in professional basketball.

Contract Earnings and Financial Status

Although LiAngelo has not secured a long-term NBA contract, he has signed several short-term, non-guaranteed deals:

  • 2020: One-year contract with the Detroit Pistons worth $898,300 (waived before the season).
  • 2021: One-year contract with the Charlotte Hornets worth $925,200 (waived after one day).
  • 2022: One-year contract with the Charlotte Hornets worth $1.02 million (waived before the season).

Despite these brief stints, Ball continues to earn money through endorsements, personal branding, and G League contracts.

Big Baller Brand and Business Ventures

LiAngelo Ball is also associated with the Big Baller Brand (BBB), a sports apparel company founded by his father, LaVar. He has a signature shoe, part of the brand’s product lineup, which has contributed to his overall earnings. Additionally, he has gained popularity through the Facebook Watch reality series “Ball in the Family,” which documents the lives of the Ball family members.

Personal Life and Relationship with Nikki Mudarris

In 2023, LiAngelo Ball and reality TV star Nikki Mudarris announced they were expecting their first child together. Nikki, best known for her role in “Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood,” has a strong presence in entertainment and business. Their relationship has kept Ball in the public eye, extending his influence beyond the basketball world.

Future Prospects and Career Outlook

At 25, LiAngelo Ball remains determined to make an impact in professional basketball. While he has not yet solidified an NBA roster spot, he continues to develop his game through the G League and summer league opportunities. With his family’s support, a strong work ethic, and growing experience, Ball could still carve out a place for himself in professional basketball.

Even if an NBA career does not fully materialize, LiAngelo has positioned himself well financially through his endorsements, brand partnerships, and media presence. His continued involvement in Big Baller Brand, social media, and reality television ensures that his influence extends far beyond the court.

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