LaVar Ball Net Worth, How did LaVar Ball make his money?

Beyond business, LaVar is the father of two NBA stars—Lonzo Ball, a point guard for the Chicago Bulls, and LaMelo Ball, who plays for the Charlotte Hornets. His middle son, LiAngelo Ball, has taken a different path, recently signing a record deal with Def Jam as a hip-hop artist.

Early Life and Education

LaVar Ball was born in Los Angeles, California on October 23, 1967. Growing up in South LA with his four brothers, he developed a love for sports early on. At Canoga Park High School, he was a standout athlete, excelling in both basketball and football.

After high school, Ball started his college basketball journey at West Los Angeles College before transferring to Washington State University. He later moved to Cal State Los Angeles, where he continued playing. Though he never made it to the NBA, he had a brief stint in professional football, signing with the New York Jets as a practice squad player.

His background in sports and ultra-competitive mindset shaped his approach to both business and parenting. It’s what led him to create Big Baller Brand and push his sons toward professional basketball careers.

LaVar Ball Net Worth

As of February 2025, LaVar Ball's net worth is estimated to be around $4 million. Most of his wealth comes from his entrepreneurial ventures, particularly as the co-founder and CEO of Big Baller Brand, the sports apparel company he launched in 2016.

He also created the Junior Basketball Association (JBA) as an alternative to college basketball, though the league didn’t last long. Beyond business, LaVar has remained in the spotlight through various media projects and, of course, as the outspoken father of three basketball players—Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo Ball.

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Earnings

LaVar Ball has made a name for himself through bold business moves and nonstop self-promotion. His biggest venture is Big Baller Brand (BBB), a sports apparel company he co-founded in 2016. The brand grabbed headlines with its high-priced sneakers, including the $495 ZO2s—Lonzo Ball’s signature shoe. 

Despite facing challenges like customer complaints and a falling out with a business partner, Ball has kept the brand alive, occasionally relaunching new products. While it’s unclear exactly how much BBB has earned, its early hype likely brought in millions.

In 2017, Ball launched the Junior Basketball Association (JBA), an alternative to college basketball that allowed young players to get paid while developing their skills. While the idea was ambitious, the league struggled financially and shut down after just one season.

Outside of business, LaVar has turned his outspoken personality into a source of income. He starred in the Facebook reality show "Ball in the Family," which ran for six seasons and gave fans a closer look at his family’s journey. His frequent media appearances and brand deals have also helped him stay in the spotlight, keeping his name—and his businesses—relevant.

Career and Achievements

LaVar Ball’s journey has been a blend of sports, business, and entertainment. While he never made it to the NBA himself, his influence on the basketball world is undeniable. He started as a two-sport athlete, excelling in both basketball and football in high school and college. 

After beginning his college basketball career at West Los Angeles College, he transferred to Washington State University before finishing at Cal State Los Angeles. Though he didn’t reach the professional level in basketball, he had a brief stint in the NFL, signing with the New York Jets as a practice squad player.

In 2016, Ball co-founded Big Baller Brand (BBB), a sports apparel company that quickly became known for its bold marketing and high-priced products, including the $495 ZO2 sneakers. While the brand faced financial struggles and controversy, Ball has kept it alive with occasional relaunches, using his signature self-promotion to keep it in the public eye. 

A year later, he launched the Junior Basketball Association (JBA) as an alternative to college basketball, providing young players with a paid platform to showcase their skills. However, the league folded after just one season due to financial difficulties.

Beyond business, LaVar’s outspoken personality has made him a media sensation. He starred in the Facebook reality series "Ball in the Family," which ran for six seasons and gave fans an inside look at his family’s rise in basketball. His fiery interviews and bold claims have kept him in the spotlight, making him a constant presence in sports media.

Perhaps his most significant achievement is the impact he has had on his sons' careers. Lonzo Ball is an NBA point guard currently playing for the Chicago Bulls. LaMelo Ball is a star point guard for the Charlotte Hornets and was named NBA Rookie of the Year.

LiAngelo Ball, while not yet an NBA regular, has played in the G League and recently pursued a music career. Through all the highs and lows, LaVar Ball has remained a fearless entrepreneur and an influential figure in the basketball world, proving that his unconventional approach can still make waves.