LiAngelo Ball signs music deal with Def Jam following popularity of hit song 'Tweaker'

In the United States, LiAngelo Ball is taking a significant step in his career by transitioning from basketball to music. Recently, he secured a record deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, officially announced by a representative of the label. This contract follows the success of his debut rap single titled 'Tweaker,' which was released on January 3, 2025, and went viral on social media, showcasing a nostalgic sound that resonates with tracks from the mid-2000s. Noteworthy figures in the music industry, including Meek Mill, Lil Yachty, and T-Pain, have supported his work, contributing to his rising popularity. As a result, he has received an invitation to perform at the upcoming Rolling Loud California event scheduled for March 2025, further cementing his presence in the music scene. LiAngelo Ball, born into a prominent basketball family, is the middle brother of NBA players Lonzo Ball and LaMelo Ball. His basketball journey has seen him facing challenges, including going undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft and experiencing a variety of training camp contracts with teams like the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets without ever making it to an active roster. In 2021, he played for the NBA G League team, the Greensboro Swarm, averaging 4.4 points and 1.1 rebounds over 31 games. He initially began his college career at UCLA but faced a suspension stemming from a shoplifting incident in China, which ultimately led him to leave the university and sign with a Lithuanian basketball club. The signing with Def Jam marks a pivotal moment for Ball as he seeks to carve out a new identity and career path beyond basketball. His motivations appear to extend beyond mere fame, as he now holds a contract valued at approximately $13 million, with $8 million guaranteed. More significantly, his deal includes full ownership of his music and record label, allowing him to maintain creative control over his artistic endeavors. This ownership is a crucial aspect for many artists today, as it enables them to cultivate their brand and ensure their work is credited and rewarded appropriately. Overall, the crossover from sports to music is not new, but the impact and success LiAngelo Ball achieves as he navigates this transition could inspire other athletes contemplating similar moves. His ability to build on his existing fan base as an athlete while leveraging his recent musical achievements will be key to his sustained success in this new industry. As he prepares for upcoming performances and strives to make a mark with his music, all eyes will be on how this prominent basketball figure evolves into a respected artist in the competitive music landscape.