Lonzo Ball is speaking publicly about his parents' divorce for the first time, saying much of what's been reported doesn't reflect what actually happened.
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During an episode of the "Ball in the Family Podcast" with brother LiAngelo Ball, the NBA guard addressed the recent split between his parents, LaVar and Tina Ball, after weeks of speculation surrounding their separation.
"First and foremost, I want to say I love both my parents," Lonzo said. "But the situation that's been put out there isn't how it went down."
While declining to share every detail, Lonzo said his mother did not initially want to leave the marriage.
"My mom didn't want to leave," he said. "She was, quote unquote, damn near forced to leave. I helped her leave, and I'm glad she did. She's in a great spot now."
Lonzo also pushed back on rumors suggesting his mother's decision was connected to LaVar Ball's recent health issues, including the amputation of his foot.
"She was not wrong at all," Lonzo said. "She did not leave him because he lost his foot. That's a myth that got put out there."
Despite the family's difficult situation, Lonzo emphasized that he remains close with both parents and credited each of them for helping raise him and his brothers.
"My pops is good, too," Lonzo said. "They obviously don't mess with each other, but I mess with them both."
He added that both parents played major roles in the family's success and that, while the marriage ultimately ended, he believes they're both in a good place.
"They're both doing well, and I love them both," Lonzo said. "We can move on now."
The Ball family has been in the spotlight recently for more than one reason, with LaVar and Tina's divorce drawing attention while younger brother LaMelo Ball has also made headlines following his reported trade to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
