How LiAngelo Ball Learned to Drive at 12, A Look at His Unusual Path from Early Lessons to NBA Dreams

Growing up in the spotlight often requires early maturity and the ability to handle unusual responsibilities, as LiAngelo Ball, brother of NBA player LaMelo Ball, revealed in a candid segment on “The WAE Show.” With their lives closely followed by sports enthusiasts and the media alike, the Ball family continues to share intriguing snippets of their unique upbringing. This time, the story comes from LiAngelo, who disclosed a rather unconventional childhood lesson—learning to drive at the tender age of twelve.

A Father’s Forethought: Preparing for Emergencies

LiAngelo’s recount of his early driving days reflects a mix of necessity and foresight imparted by his father, LaVar Ball.

Look, my dad taught me how to drive at 11 years old,” LiAngelo explained, adding humorously, “12 years old, I’m driving me and Melo to school.

This revelation was shared on the social platform X, highlighting how these lessons were part of a broader strategy to prepare him for any emergency that might arise.

My dad told me, ‘If I ever get hurt, a heart attack, somebody’s got to drive us back.’ I’m like, ‘That makes sense.’

It’s this pragmatic approach to parenting that has often sparked debates about the unconventional methods LaVar employs in raising his sons.

The Road Less Traveled: From Driving to NBA Dreams

Beyond the initial shock of a seventh grader behind the wheel, LiAngelo’s story delves deeper into the resilience and readiness that he believes are crucial not only on the road but in life. Today, LiAngelo is navigating the challenging terrain of professional basketball. Despite showcasing his skills in the Summer League and the preseason games with the Charlotte Hornets, securing a stable position in the NBA remains an ongoing battle.

I hoop every day,” Ball shared in a brief chat with ClutchPoints’ Joey Mistretta, underscoring his relentless pursuit of basketball excellence. “I workout with Lonzo, work out with Melo when I can. I’m always getting NBA workouts. So I’m just waiting on my call.

This dedication is a testament to his preparedness, a trait deeply ingrained in him from those early driving lessons.

LiAngelo’s Current Court: Playing with Astros de Jalisco

While his NBA aspirations are still alive, LiAngelo has not shied away from exploring opportunities beyond the U.S. borders. Currently, he is playing with the Astros de Jalisco in Mexico, proving that his journey through professional basketball is as diverse as the roads he learned to navigate at such a young age.

Passing Down the Wheel

Looking ahead, LiAngelo sees the value in the lessons learned from his father and plans to pass on this legacy of preparedness to his future children. In an era where traditional parenting norms are continuously being questioned, the Ball family’s approach offers a fresh perspective on readiness and responsibility, themes that resonate deeply with young athletes and families alike.

As LiAngelo Ball continues to hustle for his spot in the limelight, his story of early driving lessons stands out as a metaphor for his life—steering through challenges, ready for the moment his number is called, all while keeping his eyes on the vast horizons of professional sports.