Family Bonds Strengthened as LaMelo Supports LaVar After Surgery

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — LaMelo Ball showed solidarity with his father, LaVar Ball, before the Charlotte Hornets‘ game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night. The poignant moment came to light just as reports surfaced about LaVar’s recent surgery to amputate his right foot.

In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on Thursday, LaMelo wrote, “seen my dawg b4 da game it was only right i love u pops 5L and after 🕺🛸💕💕.” This public acknowledgment marks the first time any of LaVar’s sons have addressed their father’s health condition following the procedure.

LaVar, age 57, who has gained notoriety as the co-founder of the Big Baller Brand and an outspoken advocate for his sons, is reportedly in great spirits despite his significant health challenge. The news about LaVar’s foot amputation emerged from various media outlets, revealing that he underwent the operation due to a serious medical issue.

On the court, LaMelo delivered a standout performance against the Lakers, scoring 27 points, along with six assists and five rebounds, leading the Hornets to a 100-97 upset victory at Crypto.com Arena. This season, he is averaging a career-high 27.3 points, 7.2 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game.

The Ball family’s close-knit nature was evident in LaMelo’s gesture to share his father’s photo, which shows LaVar using a knee scooter to assist with mobility. Though the specifics of LaVar’s medical condition remain undisclosed, supporters have rallied around him, expressing their well-wishes for his recovery on social media.

LaVar Ball has long been a controversial figure, known for his brash statements and predictions regarding his sons’ futures in basketball. His ambitions for LaMelo and brothers Lonzo and LiAngelo have captured public attention, while the family’s journey in the limelight has left an indelible mark on sports culture.

Previously, LaVar Ball played college basketball at California State University, Los Angeles, and briefly had stints with the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers, although he never made a significant impact in professional football. His entrepreneurial spirit was recognized through the establishment of Big Baller Brand, which gained fame for producing signature shoes for his sons.

Supporters of LaVar have expressed their admiration for his positive attitude during this difficult time. The Ball family’s strength and unity during challenging moments serve as a reminder of the importance of family bonds in the face of adversity.