Health Complications Arise

LaVar Ball, the renowned basketball patriarch, has shared insights into his difficult health journey in an extensive interview. Recently, he underwent a significant medical procedure that resulted in the partial amputation of his right leg.

In a heartfelt piece for SLAM magazine, Ball recounted how he was initially hospitalized for over a month due to an infection on his foot. This infection was exacerbated by his pre-existing diabetes, leading to serious complications.

The Road to Amputation

In his own words, Ball described the rapid progression of his medical condition: “I had an infection on my foot that started spreading through my blood due to not paying attention to my diabetes,” he stated. He detailed the subsequent removals, which included losing several toes and eventually his foot, before the decision was made to amputate almost up to his knee. “Three surgeries. And then there was also the blood transfusions. Not one, not two, not three, four different times,” he added.

Reflections on His Health Crisis

The severity of his illness prompted Ball to reflect deeply on his circumstances. He admitted, “It made me question whether it was worth going through it sometimes,” contemplating whether it would be easier to simply give up. However, he found renewed motivation through the support of his three sons—LaMelo, Lonzo, and LiAngelo Ball.

Support from Family

Ball expressed gratitude for the encouragement of his sons during this challenging time. “They’re like, ‘Dad, you’re the toughest dude I know.’ That made me keep going,” he remarked. The strength he drew from his family deepened his resolve to continue fighting through this adversity.

He also conveyed how the presence of his sons, especially when they are all together, provides him with a profound sense of strength and motivation.

Current Outlook

Despite the life-altering surgery that took place in February, Ball has embraced a positive outlook on his recovery. Just weeks after the operation, he took to social media to share an image of himself, radiating positivity and resilience.