Lonzo Ball, the eldest of the three Ball brothers, stated that his mother, Tina Ball, was "damn-near forced to leave" his father, LaVar Ball, during a recent appearance on the "Ball in the Family Podcast." This statement offers a different perspective on the couple's separation, which was publicly announced by LaVar Ball.
Lonzo Ball emphasized his love for both parents and clarified that the public narrative surrounding the divorce does not accurately reflect the situation. "My mom didn’t want to leave. She was damn-near forced to leave," Lonzo said, adding that he "helped" his mother leave his father. He also refuted claims that Tina Ball's departure was related to LaVar Ball's recent foot amputation, calling it a "myth."
Despite the circumstances of their separation, Lonzo Ball acknowledged the positive roles both his parents played in raising him and his brothers, Gelo and LaMelo, into public figures. "They didn’t work out. And it is what it is, man. They’re both doing well and I love them both," he stated.
LaVar Ball had previously announced the split, stating on a stream that Tina Ball had "decided to go her own way" after 30 years of marriage. He remarked, "She was always beautiful in my eyes, until you want to go do something else. Now you not as beautiful to me again. If you decide to go this way, I’m gonna go that way. That’s fine. It is what it is, man."
LaVar Ball also indicated that he has begun dating someone new, describing the person as someone who "is working for me."
LaVar and Tina Ball were married in 1997 and were instrumental in the rise of their sons' athletic careers.