?He Doesn?t Want That 1v1 Matchup?: LaMelo Ball?s Dad Manipulated Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson Into Following His Wishes, As per Stephen a Smith in 2020

Both Lonzo Ball and LaMelo Ball were two talents that displayed their brilliance in the Junior Basketball Association founded by their father. In time, the two were drafted in the NBA by the Los Angeles Lakers and the Charlotte Hornets respectively. The Lakers picked Lonzo in the 2017 NBA draft while Michael Jordan’s Hornets picked LaMelo in the 2020 NBA draft.

A few years ago, Stephen A. Smith claimed that the father of the two manipulated MJ and Magic to make the path easier for his sons. Their father is none other than the NFL veteran and businessman, Lavar Ball. Moreover, Smith’s take on Lavar’s influence on his sons’ careers may leave many fans stumped.

Stephen A Smith claimed Lavar Ball manipulated Jordan and Johnson

In a 2020 ESPN broadcast, when questions were asked if MJ had made the right choice picking LaMelo, Smith claimed Lavar Ball apparently helped his sons ease into the league by manipulating MJ and Magic. During the broadcast, the now 55-year-old analyst complimented Lavar and gave him his due respect. Moreover, he added, “He(Lavar Ball) got two of his sons(LaMelo and Lonzo) drafted in the top three. And who were the people who drafted them, Earvin Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan.”

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The ESPN analyst continued, “This man has taken a lot of hits over the years, but let’s call it what it is, clearly loves his kids and clearly did a great great job of marketing who they are and what they potentially bring to the table.”

He continued, “Because two of the greatest players that ever played the game of basketball are responsible as franchises for overseeing the draft picks of two of his sons to all both in the top three, Lonzo number two, LaMelo number three. I definitely think you got to give Lavar ball some chops even though he doesn’t want that one-on-one match-up”

Both brothers, however, are performing quite well in the league following their debut. Lonzo still might not have reached his potential, but LaMelo is performing brilliantly since entering the league in 2020. Lonzo, until now, has averaged around 11.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.2 assists. On the other hand, his younger brother has managed to average 19.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 7.2 assists.

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Is there any substance to his claim? Let us know in the comments below.