NBA: LaVar Ball Takes A Jab At Son, Brands Him Damaged Goods

Big Baller Brand will stay as it is with LaVar Ball standing pat on his decision despite rants form his son, Lonzo Ball. This is despite the tarnished image of the brand following an alleged embezzlement case linked to former business partner Alan Foster.

It was back in March when Lonzo Ball cut ties with Foster due to $1.5 million in unaccounted money coming from Ball's personal and business accounts, ESPN reported. The younger Ball claims that Foster used his access to his business and personal finances to enrich himself. Foster has a criminal history - including a seven-year sentence for mail fraud and money laundering.

To somehow salvage the brand, Lonzo Ball suggested renaming the business to move on from the embezzlement issue. Unfortunately, LaVar Ball was not coy to the idea and even took a swipe at Lonzo.

“When I come out with a name and then somebody tells me to change it, that’s like me telling me to change your name. That’s like people saying ‘Oh, hey, change Lonzo’s name to Alfonzo on the fact that he been damaged goods for the last two years,’” the elder Ball said in a recent episode of "Ball in the Family."

The key phrase on LaVar Ball's comments is damaged goods. Most know how the second overall pick of the 2017 NBA Draft has been struggling with injuries, a reason why his rise has come up short. The squabble adds yet another interesting sidelight to the Ball family, particularly LaVar. He has been getting his share of the spotlight, ranting about his sons and his business ventures.

As for Lonzo Ball, it will be interesting if he can continue playing wise basketball with the New Orleans Pelicans. He was part of that blockbuster Anthony Davis trade between the Pelicans and the Lakers, a move that could end up benefitting the 21-year-old guard.

Similar to how D' Angelo Russell and Julius Randle broke out of their shell, Ball could do the same under the watch of head coach Alvin Gentry. Paired with Zion Williamson, Jrue Holiday and Jahlil Okafor, the Pels could be an exciting team to watch. This is for as long as Lonzo finds a way to keep his mind in the game and ignore the distractions likely to be caused by his dad this NBA season.