As of now, LaVar Ball has an estimated net worth of $4 million, a significant sum derived from his entrepreneurial ventures, media projects, and his role as the father of three professional basketball players.
Although his wealth doesn’t rival the fortune of NFL superstars like Tom Brady or Patrick Mahomes, LaVar’s financial success stems from his unconventional business ventures and his influential position within the sports industry.
Sources of Income
Big Baller Brand
LaVar Ball is perhaps best known for founding Big Baller Brand (BBB), a sportswear company he co-founded in 2016.
The brand gained attention for its high-priced sneakers, particularly the ZO2 signature shoe, which was priced at a premium of $495.
Although the initial product launches sparked debates and controversies, they also led to significant revenue streams.
Despite facing financial setbacks—most notably, an embezzlement scandal involving a co-founder—Big Baller Brand remains an essential part of LaVar’s financial success.
Its merchandise, including clothing and accessories, continues to bring in steady income.
However, the brand’s future has been clouded by challenges, including the departure of LaVar’s son Lonzo Ball from the company due to the scandal and ongoing struggles to maintain profitability.
Media Ventures
LaVar Ball has made a name for himself as a polarizing figure in the media. His outspoken personality and bold claims have earned him significant attention from media outlets.
One of the most notable platforms LaVar has used to build his financial empire is the reality TV series Ball in the Family, which follows the lives of the Ball family and airs on streaming services.
This show reportedly generates six figures annually, contributing substantially to LaVar’s wealth.
Additionally, LaVar has secured paid public appearances and interviews, further boosting his media earnings.
His ability to remain a central figure in sports and business media has allowed him to maintain a steady income despite the volatility of his ventures.
Speaking Engagements
LaVar also capitalizes on his larger-than-life persona by engaging in speaking engagements. As a well-known public figure, he commands fees for motivational talks, sports-related events, and interviews.
His reputation as an innovator in the sports world and a bold businessman gives him a platform that continues to generate income.
Early Earnings from Sports
NFL Career
LaVar Ball’s professional sports career began with American football, though it was relatively short-lived. He was signed by the New York Jets as a free agent in 1994, primarily as a defensive end, before transitioning to tight end.
In 1995, LaVar was allocated to the London Monarchs of the World League of American Football (WLAF).
However, due to injuries, his professional career never took off, and he only managed to record 28 kickoff return yards with the Monarchs.
LaVar’s earnings during his NFL career were modest. As a practice squad player, he earned between $30,000 to $50,000 annually in the mid-1990s. His brief stint in the WLAF brought in an estimated $40,000.
These amounts are negligible compared to the riches amassed by later NFL stars, and LaVar’s football career was ultimately a stepping stone to his business ventures.
Big Baller Brand: A Risky Financial Venture
LaVar’s financial success story truly begins with the launch of Big Baller Brand (BBB). Despite facing skepticism and criticism, BBB carved out a niche in the sportswear market with a focus on premium pricing and basketball culture.
Challenges with Big Baller Brand
Though the brand was initially successful, it faced numerous financial hurdles, including a scandal involving embezzlement that cost the company an estimated $1.5 million.
Despite these setbacks, the brand still plays a significant role in LaVar’s net worth, as he continues to push products related to his sons’ success in professional basketball.
Lonzo and LaMelo Ball, both NBA players, have brought visibility and attention to the brand, allowing it to continue generating income, albeit at a smaller scale than initially anticipated.
Junior Basketball Association: A Costly Risk
In 2017, LaVar Ball launched the Junior Basketball Association (JBA), an alternative to the NCAA for young athletes. The league offered players salaries ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per month, but it proved financially unsustainable.
The JBA folded in 2019, with LaVar estimating losses exceeding $1 million. Although the league was ambitious and aimed at providing an alternative path for young basketball talent, its financial challenges added a complex layer to LaVar’s entrepreneurial narrative.
How LaVar’s Sons’ Success Contributed to His Wealth?
LaVar Ball’s wealth has also benefited from the success of his sons in professional basketball. His son Lonzo Ball signed a lucrative $85 million contract with the Chicago Bulls, and LaMelo Ball, another of his sons, has emerged as a rising star in the NBA with the Charlotte Hornets.
The success of LaVar’s sons has not only elevated the visibility of Big Baller Brand but has also enhanced LaVar’s media presence and business ventures.
As the patriarch of a basketball family, LaVar’s financial success is intrinsically tied to the achievements of his children.
