LiAngelo Ball, known primarily for his basketball prowess as part of the Ball family dynasty, has taken a bold step in a new direction by signing with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, a representative from his label Born2Ball Music Group says. Sources said the deal is worth as much as $13 million, with $8 million guaranteed, and gives Ball full ownership of music and his own record label. With this move, the athlete-turned-artist has set his sights on a musical career, bringing a refreshing new twist to his narrative. LiAngelo, whose journey through professional basketball has been anything but ordinary, now enters the music industry, ready to make his mark in a space that requires an entirely different kind of performance. This transition marks the beginning of a new chapter not just for him, but also for the cultural legacy of the Ball family.
From Courts to Studios: LiAngelo’s Athletic Roots
To fully understand the significance of LiAngelo Ball’s decision to pivot into music, one must look at his origins. Born into a family that made waves in the sports world, LiAngelo’s life trajectory has always been linked to basketball. He is the middle son of LaVar and Tina Ball, and while his older brother, Lonzo Ball, rose to prominence as the second overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, and younger brother, LaMelo Ball, became an NBA sensation, LiAngelo’s basketball path has been somewhat unconventional.
LiAngelo played for the UCLA Bruins before being embroiled in a scandal during a trip to China, which led to his suspension and eventual decision to leave college basketball. He later played for the Los Angeles Ballers in the Junior Basketball Association (JBA), a league created by his father. Although LiAngelo’s time in professional basketball didn’t follow the same trajectory as his brothers, he continued to play in various international leagues and later joined the Charlotte Hornets’ NBA Summer League, though he didn’t secure a permanent NBA roster spot. Throughout his athletic career, LiAngelo maintained a relatively low-key but steady presence in the sports world.
The Shift to Music: A Family Legacy Reimagined
While his basketball career was met with mixed results, it is not uncommon for athletes, particularly those in the Ball family, to explore ventures beyond their primary sport. LiAngelo’s move to music, however, marks a significant change. The Ball family has long been associated with bold moves, unconventional choices, and the desire to break the mold. His brothers have dabbled in music as well, with LaMelo releasing rap tracks and Lonzo Ball showing a flair for business and branding. LiAngelo’s decision to sign with Def Jam & Universal Music feels like a natural evolution, aligning with the family’s unrelenting pursuit of new ventures.
In an interview following his signing, LiAngelo described how music had always been an integral part of his life. Raised in a household where success in one form or another was expected, LiAngelo found solace in the creative side of music. His influence comes from a range of genres, including hip-hop and R&B, which have defined his personal soundtrack for years. While his basketball career kept him occupied, the artist within him remained dormant until now. “Music was always something I had a passion for, and when the opportunity came up, I felt it was time to pursue it seriously,” he explained.
Universal Music: A Platform for New Talent
Signing with Universal Music is a game-changing move for LiAngelo. The label has an established track record of launching global music superstars across genres. From pop icons to underground rap legends, Universal’s roster includes some of the biggest names in the industry. For an artist like LiAngelo, who is still relatively unknown as a musician, this partnership offers both the infrastructure and resources needed to turn his dreams into reality.
His signing with Universal isn’t just a nod to his potential as an artist; it’s also a calculated risk by the label. LiAngelo comes with an already built-in fanbase, thanks to his basketball notoriety and social media presence. He’s not just another unsigned artist hoping for a chance — he’s a figure who can bring attention and streams right out of the gate. This dynamic is especially important in an industry where new artists often struggle to get recognition without a major platform.
Musical Influences and the Sound of LiAngelo Ball
While much of the focus has been on LiAngelo’s family history in sports, his entry into music brings new conversations about his sound. From his early days in basketball, LiAngelo has been open about his love for hip-hop, and this passion is evident in the music he has begun releasing. Though still early in his career as a musician, his tracks reflect the influences of popular artists like Drake, Travis Scott, and Future, all while carrying his unique voice.
LiAngelo’s music blends a sense of laid-back, introspective lyricism with upbeat, trap-inspired production. His songs focus on themes of perseverance, self-confidence, and overcoming obstacles , a perfect thematic fit given his own personal and professional journey.
“I want people to know that I’ve been through the ups and downs, and music gives me a way to express those feelings,” he said. “Basketball taught me discipline, and music has taught me to open up more about myself.”
Though LiAngelo has only released a handful of tracks, the buzz around his music has been steadily growing. His unique blend of vulnerability and braggadocio, combined with his signature flow, has resonated with listeners. With Universal Music behind him, it’s clear that he has the tools to refine his sound and expand his reach.
Crossing the Threshold: A New Identity
For LiAngelo, stepping into the music industry means redefining his public persona. In many ways, he’s already shed the pressures of being part of the Ball family’s basketball legacy and is eager to carve out his own niche. While his brothers have dominated the basketball and social media worlds, LiAngelo is taking a more measured approach to his music career. His focus is less on competing with his family members and more on developing his own identity.
“I’m not just doing this because I want to be another Ball in the spotlight,” LiAngelo said. “I’m doing this because I’ve always wanted to make music, and I’m ready to share that with the world.”
This refreshing outlook has made him a relatable figure for fans. He’s not forcing an identity but is instead embracing the journey of self-discovery through his music. The success of his debut single, “TWEAKER,” especially breaking on Billboard Hot 100, shows that people are interested in his evolution as an artist.
What’s Next for LiAngelo Ball?
As LiAngelo moves forward in his musical career, the possibilities seem endless. Universal Music offers him a platform to expand his artistry, and his name recognition ensures that his journey will be watched closely. Fans of his basketball career will undoubtedly follow him into this new venture, but it’s the fans he garners through his music that will define his long-term success.
LiAngelo’s trajectory as a musician will likely involve him refining his sound, experimenting with new styles, and collaborating with other artists to broaden his appeal. Whether or not he reaches the level of success seen by other musical figures is still uncertain, but his passion and commitment to this new path are undeniable.
For LiAngelo Ball, or G3 as he’s called, his signing with Universal Music isn’t just about making music — it’s about rewriting his own narrative. With the tools, talent, and drive to succeed, he is poised to make waves in an entirely new arena. And while his basketball days may have faded, his potential as a musician is just beginning to shine.
