LiAngelo Ball Signs Million Dollar Record deal

G3, born LiAngelo Robert Ball, is starting a new career in music after playing only two games with Astro de Jalisco in Mexico.

LiAngelo was born in Anaheim, California, to LaVar and Tina Ball. He has two siblings who also play in the basketball league: Lonzo and LaMelo Ball. LiAngelo has been in the spotlight over the last few years due to his father’s intense tactics to ensure his sons played basketball.

However, after failing to make it to the NBA and playing in lesser leagues, it appears the former basketball player is switching careers. Ball, who played only two games with Astro de Jalisco in Mexico in early 2024, left after an injury and shifted his focus to music.

ESPN reported Monday that Ball has signed a deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group. The deal is reportedly worth $13 million, with $8 million guaranteed. Ball will have full ownership of his music and his own record label.

“I might swerve, bend the corner, whoah-oh-oh.”

LiAngelo released his first single on January 3, titled “Tweaker,” which has since garnered over 8 million views on YouTube. With Ball’s influence, the single has made its way through arenas and locker rooms across the country. Following the success of the single, LiAngelo has been announced as part of the Rolling Loud lineup in Inglewood.

The single has been receiving rave reviews from social media and industry giants. Meek Mill, T-Pain, and Lil Yachty have given the track glowing feedback, while artists like Moneybagg Yo and Boosie are looking to get on the remix. Most of the praise is due to the nostalgic vibe “Tweaker” gives to the listener.

The single has been making waves within the sports industry. The Cleveland Cavaliers played the track after beating LaMelo Ball and the Charlotte Hornets on January 5. Similarly, the Detroit Lions played the song as they celebrated their win in the locker room.

According to journalist Loren LoRosa on The Breakfast Club, LiAngelo first received a deal with an undisclosed smaller label for $75,000 through a distribution agreement. Once the LA fires occurred and things slowed down, he was offered $4 million by Universal. After negotiations, the offer was increased to $8 million.

Some are calling the deal “premature,” given that the single had not charted at the time of signing. Since then, “Tweaker” has debuted at No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100.