Kaylah Walton
LiAngelo Ball, often in the shadow of his NBA-renowned brothers Lonzo and LaMelo, has carved out a distinct space for himself in the music industry. Under the stage name “G3,” Ball’s venture from basketball to music has notably succeeded, especially with the rising popularity of his hit song “Tweaker.”
This newfound success led to a lucrative record deal worth up to $13 million with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, featuring $8 million guaranteed. Released on January 3, the track has resonated widely, evoking the classic sounds of early 2000s hip-hop.
The catchy hook and energetic beat of “Tweaker” have allowed it to transcend basketball, capturing the interest of both NBA and NFL players, creating a frenzy on social media, and even seeing Shaquille O’Neal joining in on a dance during an episode of Inside the NBA. The song has also received accolades from notable artists like Lil Yachty, T-Pain, and Joe Budden, boosting its popularity significantly.
LiAngelo’s record contract showcases his rising stature in the music scene. The guaranteed amount of $8 million places him above the earnings of 151 NBA players projected for 2025, including Boston Celtics’ Payton Pritchard and Detroit Pistons’ Jalen Duren.
In stark contrast, former MVP Russell Westbrook is expected to earn less with a two-year deal averaging $3.3 million annually.
Despite yet to experience playtime in an NBA regular-season game, Ball’s music has reached locker rooms of NBA teams like the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers, along with the Detroit Lions. Social media campaigns featuring “Tweaker” have gone viral, with several NBA teams integrating it into their pre-game rituals.
During a game for the Pistons, LaMelo Ball, LiAngelo’s brother, noticed the song’s influence when a fan rapped the lyrics from the stands, amusing LaMelo and inspiring an impressive performance that night, where he scored 35 points to lead his team to victory.
New Beginnings Beyond Basketball
While LiAngelo may not have realized his ambition of joining the NBA alongside his siblings, his commitment to music has allowed him to establish a new identity.
After going undrafted in 2018, he played basketball abroad in Lithuania, participated in LaVar Ball’s JBA league, and had a brief term in the NBA G-League before moving to play in Mexico. However, it is his musical endeavors that have finally brought him the recognition he sought.
As “Tweaker” continues to rise in popularity and his record deal positions him among the industry’s best, LiAngelo Ball demonstrates that achievement can manifest in diverse forms. His narrative is a strong testament to the importance of tenacity and reinvention.
