LiAngelo Ball has signed a whopping 13 million record deal with Def Jam Records following the success of his single "Tweaker." While he could not fulfil his dream of joining his brothers Lonzo and Lamelo in the NBA, he has become a star in his own right. His hit single took the NBA world by a whirlwind and amassed 15 million streams on Spotify in just over a week since its release. Moreover, the song has apparantly left a lasting impression on the players as it has been played in almost every locker room across the league.
LiAngelo Ball Signs a Whopping Deal
The initial report stated Gelo’s deal was worth $8 million. ESPN insider Shams Charania brought forward the details of Gelo’s new record deal. According to his sources, the deal is worth $13 million, with $8 million of it guaranteed. He tweeted:
“LiAngelo Ball has signed a deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, a representative from his label Born2Ball Music Group says. Sources said the deal is worth as much as $13 million, with $8 million guaranteed, and gives Ball full ownership of music and his own record label.”
LiAngelo Ball has signed a deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, a representative from his label Born2Ball Music Group says. Sources said the deal is worth as much as $13 million, with $8 million guaranteed, and gives Ball full ownership of music and his own record label.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 13, 2025
LiAngelo has attempted on many occasions to push his basketball career. He has made appearances for a few Hornets Summer League teams, along with their G-League affiliate. However, he was never able to attain a guaranteed contract with any NBA roster.
The reception to his single has been phenomenal till now. Players all across the league have ostensibly liked and expressed their pleasure upon hearing the song.
LiAngelo Bell Receives Praise From Damian Lillard
Damian Lillard is undisputedly the most successful NBA player when it comes to music. The Bucks star, under the name D.O.L.L.A, has featured alongside globally recognised rappers like Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg, 2 Chainz and more. As someone who has successfully tasted the waters of hip-hop music and knows the ABC of the field, Lillard has given his approval to "Tweaker."
“I been hearing it a lot,” Lillard said. “It gives me that 2003, 2004 vibe. I rock with it… It’s a slapper, you know? As an artist, you’ve got to respect other people’s artistry. When something is going, it’s going.”
Lillard is not the only NBA player to recognise the musical talent of Gelo. Four-time NBA champion and Warriors star, Draymond Green publically reacted to the single on The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis. Green initially saw it with skepticism but later gave the credit where it was due.