Basketball
The Unlikely Rise of LiAngelo Ball: From Basketball's Black Sheep to Rap Sensation
2025-01-16

LiAngelo Ball, once overshadowed by his brothers Lonzo and LaMelo in the world of basketball, has found an unexpected path to fame through music. While Lonzo and LaMelo have fulfilled their father LaVar's prophecy by playing in the NBA, LiAngelo struggled in minor leagues before emerging as a rapper. His debut single "Tweaker" has become a viral hit, gaining praise from established artists and sports figures alike. This newfound success marks a significant turnaround for LiAngelo, who was previously seen as the family's black sheep. The song's unique sound, reminiscent of early 2000s hip-hop, has resonated with both older and younger audiences, propelling LiAngelo into a new era as a respected artist.

A New Chapter in Music

After years of struggling in various minor leagues, LiAngelo Ball has reinvented himself as a rapper under the stage name G3. His single "Tweaker" has garnered widespread acclaim, surprising many who had written him off. The track's catchy chorus and bouncy beat have made it a favorite among fans and athletes. Even seasoned rappers like Joe Budden have praised the song, calling it hard-hitting and worthy of being played at strip clubs. LiAngelo's transition from basketball to rap has not only earned him respect but also opened doors to collaborations with established artists such as Meek Mill and T-Pain.

The rapid rise of "Tweaker" has been nothing short of meteoric. It has taken over social media, becoming the soundtrack to everything from workout videos to weather reports. The Detroit Lions even played it in their locker room after clinching a top seed in the NFL playoffs. Shaquille O'Neal, a former NBA star turned rapper, was seen enjoying the song on Inside the NBA. The track's success is so significant that it has overshadowed even Drake's latest mixtape. LiAngelo's journey from basketball's black sheep to a rising rap star is nothing short of remarkable. His recent signing with Universal Music Group’s Def Jam label for a $13 million contract further solidifies his place in the music industry. With full ownership of his masters and the ability to publish under his own imprint, LiAngelo is set to make a lasting impact.

Redemption and Reinvention

LiAngelo Ball's transformation from a struggling basketball player to a celebrated rapper is a story of redemption and reinvention. His earlier career was marred by controversies, including an infamous shoplifting incident in China that derailed his college basketball prospects. Despite these setbacks, LiAngelo never gave up on finding his place in the spotlight. His bold risk-taking, perhaps influenced by his father's grand ambitions, led him to explore opportunities outside of basketball. The release of "Tweaker" has not only redeemed him but also positioned him as a leading voice in the new era of rapper-influencers.

The appeal of "Tweaker" lies in its nostalgic sound, which borrows elements from early 2000s hip-hop. The song's catchy chorus and bouncy beat remind listeners of a time when Cash Money Records dominated the scene. Cam'ron, a rapper turned sportscaster, praised LiAngelo for sounding like he was "down with Cash Money." Despite coming from a privileged background, LiAngelo's credibility as an artist remains unchallenged. The few critics who have dismissed the song say more about themselves than the music. For hoops fans, "Tweaker" offers a sense of redemption for LiAngelo, the Ball brother left behind. His success in music has earned him respect and admiration, proving that sometimes, the most unlikely paths can lead to the greatest triumphs. As LiAngelo continues to explore his musical journey, he has already achieved what many thought impossible—becoming the favorite son in the Ball family.

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