The 2017 NBA Draft, set for June 22, is a life-changing event for prospects on the cusp of stardom. For top prospects, Markelle Fultz, Lonzo Ball and Josh Jackson, all the sacrifices are vindicated when they hear NBA commissioner Adam Silver call their name.
It is during this time they reflect upon the road it took to get there, grateful not only towards the NBA but toward their families and their influences growing up. With Father’s Day rapidly approaching, it is time for everyone to appreciate everything their father figure has done for them and the influential role they had.
Perhaps no other prospect’s father has been as outspoken and vocal as Lonzo’s dad, LaVar Ball. LaVar has always had his children’s best interests in mind, even when it comes to the Big Baller Brand. With The Players’ Tribune serving as an outlet, Lonzo was able to relay some of his sentiments toward his father, LaVar, ahead of the holiday:
What they don’t realize is all of the stuff that you’ve said about me in public is the same stuff you’ve been telling me privately my whole life. And a lot of the time, you’ve been right. Over the years, you’ve spoken so many things into reality that otherwise seemed impossible. Even on the night of the draft lottery, when the Lakers ended up in the top three, you started running around the house screaming, “I TOLD EVERYBODY! I TOLD THEM IT WOULD HAPPEN!” That was hilarious.
Lonzo, and also his family, aspire to be selected by the Lakers in the upcoming 2017 NBA Draft. While the decision isn’t up to the Ball family, some signs point towards Lonzo being the ideal fit for the Lakers.
While some may complain that LaVar takes it too far, his children understand that he is only pushing them to achieve their goals. These young athletes have been working their entire lives to get an opportunity to be drafted into the NBA, with their dreams turning into a reality. The excitement from their families really encompasses the commitment and grueling process, serving as the player’s pillars of strength.
LaVar recently appeared on the Lakers Nation podcast, where he discussed the possibility of Lonzo joining the Lakers and the scrutiny he receives from the media. Some may question LaVar’s methods, but none can question that he will be the loudest supporter when he hears Lonzo’s name called by Adam Silver.
