What Is Lonzo Ball’s Net Worth?
Lonzo Ball, an American professional basketball player, has an estimated net worth of $35 million. This figure reflects his earnings from NBA contracts, endorsements, and business ventures, primarily through his family’s brand, Big Baller Brand, despite its later controversies. While specific breakdowns of his net worth composition (e.g., music royalties, endorsement earnings) are not publicly detailed, his primary income sources are well-defined.
Lonzo Ball’s Contract and Salary Details
Lonzo Ball’s career earnings are primarily derived from his NBA contracts. His initial contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, signed in July 2017, was a four-year deal worth $33 million, averaging an annual salary of approximately $8 million. This provided a substantial foundation for his net worth early in his professional career. In August 2021, Ball signed a four-year, $85 million contract with the Chicago Bulls. This significantly increased his annual average salary to approximately $21 million, playing a major role in increasing his net worth.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on October 23, 1997, in Anaheim, California, Lonzo Ball was raised in a basketball-centric environment by his parents, both former college basketball players. This early exposure and training laid the foundation for his successful basketball career. He attended Chino Hills High School, where he played alongside his brothers, LiAngelo and LaMelo, under their father’s coaching. During the 2016-2017 season, he played college basketball for the UCLA Bruins, where he demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership, further solidifying his prospects for the NBA. No specific details about his family’s early financial situation or neighborhood are available publicly.
NBA Career and Key Milestones
Lonzo Ball’s NBA career began with the Los Angeles Lakers, who selected him in the 2017 NBA Draft. His rookie year was hampered by injuries, limiting his playing time. In 2019, he was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans, where he continued to develop his skills and contribute to the team. In 2018, Lonzo earned recognition for his early career performance by being named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. In 2021, he signed with the Chicago Bulls. Unfortunately, Ball has been sidelined with a knee injury since January 2022, undergoing multiple surgeries that have kept him off the court. These injuries have significantly impacted his playing time and career trajectory in recent years.
Business Endeavors: Big Baller Brand
Lonzo Ball’s involvement with Big Baller Brand, the apparel company founded by his family, is a significant aspect of his business endeavors. In 2017, the brand released its first shoe, the ZO2, priced at $495. Despite owning a 51% stake in the company, Lonzo distanced himself from Big Baller Brand in 2019, amidst legal issues and concerns about its quality and management. He removed his tattoo of the brand’s logo and ceased promoting the company on social media. The brand faced criticism for its pricing and quality issues, with concerns raised about the potential impact on Lonzo’s ankle injuries. This venture ultimately proved to be more problematic than profitable for Ball.
“Ball in the Family” Reality Show
In 2017, Lonzo Ball and his family starred in a reality show titled “Ball in the Family,” which aired on Facebook Watch. The show provided viewers with an inside look into the lives of the Ball family, showcasing their personal and professional endeavors. While the exact financial gains from the show are not publicly available, it contributed to the family’s overall exposure and brand recognition. The show ran for several seasons, offering a continuous stream of content and engagement with fans.
Legal Issues: Lawsuit Against Gregory Alan Foster
In 2019, Lonzo Ball filed a lawsuit against Gregory Alan Foster, a part-owner and manager of Big Baller Brand. The lawsuit alleged that Foster misappropriated $1.5 million of Lonzo’s personal funds. Lonzo and his family sought to recover more than $2 million in damages. The legal battle highlighted the challenges and risks associated with family-run businesses and the importance of proper financial oversight.
Real Estate Investments
Lonzo Ball has made several notable real estate investments. In 2017, he purchased a $5.2 million mansion in Chino Hills, California. The 13,800-square-foot villa, situated on 3 acres, featured a theater, library, and fireplace. Although described as a “fixer-upper,” the property included a 1,200-square-foot guest house, a pool, and a cabana. He sold a commercial property in downtown Los Angeles for $4.365 million in 2019. This 14,635-square-foot industrial warehouse, acquired in 2017 for $3.5 million, served as a distribution center for Big Baller Brand. In April 2022, Lonzo acquired a newly renovated mansion in Sherman Oaks, California, for $7.3 million.