LaVar Ball Blames PUMA Sneakers for LaMelo's Injuries

LaMelo Ball's signature PUMA sneakers get scathing review from LaVar Ball.

LaMelo Ball wears the PUMA MB.03 during an NBA game. / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

This time, seven years ago, LaVar Ball had the national media eating out of the palm of his hand. However, as his sons have grown up and enjoyed mixed results in the NBA, the patriarch of the Ball family has faded to the background - until today.

In an interview with CBS Sports, LaVar discussed Lonzo and LaMelo's ongoing battles with injuries. LaMelo only played 36 games last season and 22 games this season, both campaigns ending early due to ankle injuries.

LaVar placed the blame for LaMelo's injuries squarely on PUMA, saying, "A lot of things have to do with them raggedy shoes that Melo be wearing. Them shoes are not made the right way for him. That's why he keeps tweaking his ankle every single time."

LaMelo signed a signature sneaker deal with PUMA before his rookie season in 2020. Since then, Ball's signature line has released three models, with the PUMA MB.03 being the most recent release. All of the sneakers feature bold designs, exciting colors, and quality technology.

While LaMelo has had bad luck with injuries, other NBA and WNBA players signed to PUMA have had no issues with the PUMA MB line. Also, it is important to remember that LaVar's company, Big Baller Brand, was not without its own quality control problems. Lonzo would later recount stories of his shoes falling apart during games, and the Los Angeles Lakers believe the shoes caused his injuries.

It is highly unlikely that PUMA's sneakers are causing LaMelo's injuries. However, the 22-year-old has not enjoyed a healthy season since his 2022 All-Star season. Fans are desperate to see the exciting young player back on the court next season. Follow FanNationKicks.com for all your sneaker news from the sports world and beyond.

Further Reading: Scoot Henderson's PUMA sneakers are dropping in an NBA 2K colorway.