LaMelo Ball has risen as a standout point guard in the NBA, but his journey began within a competitive family. His brother, LiAngelo Ball, has shared the court and the spotlight in different settings, shaping their paths together.
The sibling dynamic between LaMelo and LiAngelo reflects years of training, travel, and high-level basketball experiences. Understanding their backgrounds and roles offers insight into how the Ball family influences the sport.
| Name | Position | College | NBA Status | Notable Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LaMelo Ball | Point Guard | Spire Institute (postgraduate) | Active | Charlotte Hornets |
| LiAngelo Ball | Shooting Guard | UCLA | Undrafted / G League | Greensboro Swarm |
| Lonzo Ball | Point Guard | UCLA | Active (NBA Free Agent) | Chicago Bulls |
| Parent / Manager | LaVar Ball | Founder of Big Baller Brand, promoter of basketball development | ||
LiAngelo Ball College Journey and NBA Draft Position
UCLA Commitment and Early Challenges
LiAngelo Ball chose to play college basketball at UCLA, joining his brother Lonzo. His freshman season was promising, but an incident in China during the 2017 offseason led to a suspension and affected his draft trajectory.
2018 NBA Draft and Professional Path
Going into the 2018 NBA Draft, LiAngelo was not selected in the main NBA Draft. He later signed with an agent and worked in the G League, continuing to develop his game while staying in professional basketball.
On-Court Comparison and Playing Style
Ball Handling and Playmaking
LiAngelo Ball shares elite ball-handling traits with his brother LaMelo, excelling in tight spaces and using quick crossovers. His playmaking ability allows him to create for others, though he often operates as a scoring guard rather than a primary distributor.
Scoring and Off-Ball Movement
LiAngelo relies on sharp cuts and screens to get open, combining athleticism with crafty footwork. While not as dominant a creator as LaMelo, he poses a constant threat from mid-range and the perimeter when on rhythm.
Training Regimen and Development
Family Influence and Practice Routines
The Ball household in California emphasizes repetition, film study, and competitive drills. LiAngelo trains alongside his brothers, focusing on shooting volume, defensive footwork, and strength work to keep pace with NBA-level competition.
Professional Growth in the G League
In the G League, LiAngelo increased his minutes and handled more offensive responsibility. Working with coaching staff and veteran players helped refine his decision-making and consistency on both ends of the floor.
Future Outlook and Professional Growth
Path to Potential NBA Rosters
LiAngelo continues to build his case for an NBA role by showcasing improved defense, mid-range shooting, and reliable decision-making in competitive environments.
- Strengthen perimeter defense to match NBA length
- Expand mid-range shooting consistency
- Develop playset leadership in the G League
- Leverage family experience and media management skills
FAQ
Reader questions
How does LiAngelo Ball compare to LaMelo Ball in terms of playmaking?
LiAngelo is a capable playmaker with strong court vision, but LaMelo operates more as a primary facilitator, initiating sets and controlling pace at the NBA level.
Did LiAngelo Ball ever play with LaMelo Ball in college?
No, LiAngelo left UCLA after his freshman year while LaMelo transferred from UMKC and later declared for the NBA draft, so they were never teammates in college.
What teams has LiAngelo Ball played for professionally?
LiAngelo has competed in the NBA G League with the Greensboro Swarm and had overseas stints in Lithuania and China, while staying prepared for potential NBA opportunities.
Are LaMelo Ball and LiAngelo Ball still close despite different career paths?
Yes, they remain close as brothers and training partners, often sharing workouts and social media content that highlights their continued development.