LaVar Ball, the CEO of Big Baller Brand, recently underwent a surgical procedure to have his right foot amputated.

LaVar Ball (The Arizona Republic, USA TODAY via Imagn Content Services, LLC)
On Wednesday, TMZ Sports reported that LaVar Ball “is in good spirits” after requiring surgery to amputate his right foot. According to the outlet, Ball’s foot had to be amputated because of “a serious medical issue”, though further details are unclear.

We’ll provide more information on this matter if they become available.

The 57-year-old Ball became a media sensation in 2017 before his oldest son, Lonzo Ball, was selected second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers. That year, LaVar notably called Lonzo better than Stephen Curry and stated that his son would take the rebuilding Lakers to the playoffs in his rookie season.

Ball had a brief college basketball and football playing career, including a one-year stint with Washington State in 1987-88. He played college football at Long Beach City College as a tight end and later tried out for the New York Jets, though Ball never made the final roster.

LaVar Ball later played for the London Monarchs of the World League of American Football (later known as NFL Europe). Just over two decades later, he became a media darling and successful entreprenuer.

Here’s hoping that Mr. Ball has a safe and speedy recovery from the procedure.

Two Of LaVar Ball’s Sons Have Become NBA Standouts

LaVar Ball (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
For all the heat that LaVar got for praising his sons, Lonzo and LaMelo Ball have proven that they weren’t overhyped players. Before injuries began to pile up, the eldest Ball brother looked like a budding star in New Orleans and later Chicago.

Through his first six NBA seasons, Lonzo has averaged 11.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game. If he can stay healthy, the former No. 2 pick just might hit his ceiling.

LiAngelo never made it to the NBA, but LaMelo is sure crushing in on a lowly Charlotte Hornets team. He’s in the midst of a career year with 27.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game.