Who Is LaVar Ball Wife, Tina Ball? The Woman Behind the Big Baller Family

When you hear the name Ball in basketball circles, your mind instantly jumps to LaVar Ball and his three NBA-aspiring sons—Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo. But behind the family’s fame and larger-than-life presence stands Tina Ball, the strong and resilient woman who helped shape the Ball dynasty. While LaVar has never shied away from the spotlight, Tina has largely remained in the background, yet her impact on the family and basketball is undeniable.

Tina Ball: The Athlete, The Mother, The Fighter

Born on December 11, 1968, Tina Ball is set to turn 56 years old this year. Even in her mid-fifties, she remains surprisingly active, a testament to her background as a former basketball player. At 6-foot-1, she was a dominant force on the court during her school years, playing collegiate basketball at California State University, Los Angeles. It was her basketball skills that caught the eye of a young, ambitious LaVar Ball, who was equally passionate about the game.

According to sources, LaVar and Tina met through basketball, forming a bond over their shared love for the sport. LaVar, never one to back down from a challenge, had to win over Tina’s father, Bob Slatinsky, who was fiercely protective of his daughter. Despite the obstacles, LaVar remained persistent, even going as far as bringing Tina her homework while she was hospitalized for appendix surgery—a moment her father recalled as proof of his devotion.

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A Love That Led to a Basketball Empire

After years of dating, Tina and LaVar tied the knot in 1997, creating a family that would soon take the basketball world by storm. They had three children together:

• Lonzo Ball (born 1997) – Currently with the Chicago Bulls and a former No. 2 overall NBA Draft pick.
• LiAngelo Ball (born 1998) – A talented shooter who has played in various professional leagues.
• LaMelo Ball (born 2001) – The youngest but arguably the most successful, earning NBA Rookie of the Year (2021) and an All-Star selection.

Tina was not just a supportive mother; she was a hands-on coach who would regularly play basketball with her sons. Though they eventually outgrew her on the court, they have always credited her for shaping their love for the game.

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Overcoming a Life-Changing Stroke

In February 2017, tragedy struck the Ball family when Tina suffered a severe stroke. She was hospitalized for two and a half months, during which she was unable to speak or move freely. Doctors warned her family that she might never recover, or worse—might not survive at all.

But Tina defied all odds. With relentless support from LaVar and their sons, she fought through rehabilitation and regained her ability to walk. Though her speech has been permanently affected, she continues to show remarkable strength and resilience.

LaVar, who is known for his bold and sometimes controversial personality, has always stood by Tina during her recovery, ensuring she receives the best care. He often speaks about her in interviews, praising her strength and perseverance.

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The Ball Family Legacy and Net Worth in 2025

The Ball family is not just about basketball; they are also about business. LaVar and Tina co-founded Big Baller Brand (BBB), an apparel company that gained notoriety for its ambitious pricing and bold marketing. Though the brand has faced ups and downs, it remains a symbol of the Ball family’s entrepreneurial spirit.

As of 2025, LaVar Ball’s net worth is estimated at $4 million, accumulated from his business ventures, TV appearances, and his sons’ success in the NBA. While Tina prefers to stay out of the business spotlight, her role as the backbone of the family is undeniable.