LaVar Ball, the father of NBA stars Lonzo, LaMelo, and LiAngelo Ball, recently underwent a right foot amputation due to a serious medical issue. The news, which was first reported by TMZ Sports on Wednesday, has not been publicly addressed by LaVar or his sons. Despite the health issue, sources say that the 57-year-old remains in good spirits. The specific medical condition that led to the amputation has not been disclosed. Social media users have speculated about potential causes, including diabetes-related complications or an untreated injury or infection. Ball is known for his outspoken personality and support of his sons’ basketball careers.

Since 2017, when his oldest son, Lonzo, became eligible for the NBA Draft, LaVar Ball has been a prominent figure in the basketball world. He famously predicted that Lonzo would be drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, which came true when the team selected him with the No. 2 overall pick. Ball gained attention for his bold claims, including saying he could beat Michael Jordan one-on-one and asserting that Lonzo was the best player on a Lakers team featuring LeBron James. In 2016, Ball founded “Big Baller Brand,” which produced signature shoes for each of his sons. The brand’s website was briefly shut down in 2019 before reopening. In 2017, he also launched the Junior Basketball Association, where LaMelo and LiAngelo played.

LaVar’s sons have all made their mark in the basketball world. Lonzo Ball, who currently plays for the Chicago Bulls, recently returned to the basketball court after being sidelined for over 1,000 days due to a knee injury. He extended his contract with the team in February for two years at $20 million. LaMelo Ball, who was named an NBA All-Star 202, is averaging 27.3 points per game this season while dealing with an ankle injury. LiAngelo Ball has yet to appear in an NBA game but has found success in music, performing at this year’s All-Star Weekend8. LaMelo and Lonzo Ball were both top-three picks in their respective NBA Drafts, in 2020 and 2017.

Even with LaVar taking a step back from the public spotlight, his legacy in the basketball world continues through his sons’ careers. Fans are hoping for a speedy recovery and are likely to continue to show their support for both LaVar and his sons as they navigate this challenge. Despite the gravity of the situation, reports suggest that Ball is recovering well and remains in good spirits. The Ball brothers have yet to make any official statements regarding their father’s condition, but fans are undoubtedly waiting for any updates that may come from the family in the near future.