Lavar Ball has announced the end of his nearly three-decade marriage to Tina Ball, revealing that she has chosen to go her own way. Ball made this disclosure during a livestream appearance with content creator N3on, stating that Tina wished to pursue a different path in life.
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The couple tied the knot in 1997 and have three sons together: Lonzo, LaMelo, and LiAngelo. Ball, 57, offered a candid reflection on their time together, acknowledging that their relationship had reached its conclusion. He expressed his feelings on the separation, saying, “We had our run. That’s why you don’t see her right here… She wanted to go do something else, that’s fine with me.”
Tina Ball, whose maiden name is Slatinsky, has endured significant health challenges over the years. In 2017, she suffered a major stroke that resulted in aphasia, a condition that impacts verbal communication. During this difficult period, the couple allowed the Washington Post into their lives for a profile, revealing how they coped with Tina’s recovery. Lavar noted at the time, “As long as she can smile, give a kiss and a hug, I’m good,” adding a touch of humour by quipping, “That’s probably why she had the stroke, so she can be quiet for a minute.”
Lavar’s remarks reflect a sense of acceptance about their changed circumstances. He mentioned that he is now in a new relationship, although he remained tight-lipped about details regarding his new partner. “And I found somebody else, but it is what it is,” he said, without elaborating further when prompted.
Their separation comes amid a backdrop of other personal struggles for Lavar; in March 2025, he underwent several surgical procedures, including the amputation of his right leg due to complications from diabetes. He revealed to Slam magazine that an untreated infection on his foot led to the drastic measure. “If I don’t go at the end of last year during Christmas to get that infection looked at… this would be a different type of story,” he explained, sharing the gravity of the situation.
The couple has always been known for their strong family unit, as they supported each other through various challenges. They have celebrated the professional successes of their sons, with Lonzo, 28, having played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, LaMelo, 24, recently traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, and LiAngelo, 27, pursuing a career in music.
While the public knew the couple as a cohesive unit, Lavar’s statement highlights the complexities of personal relationships, particularly in the face of life-altering circumstances. He acknowledged the significance of long-term love during their time together, stating, “Any time you can find somebody you can stay in love with for a really long time… if you can witness that love, that’s good. I had that with her.”
The announcement of their separation has sparked reactions, reflecting the couple’s public status and the interest surrounding their family. While the news may come as a surprise to some, Lavar’s acceptance of the situation suggests a mutual understanding between him and Tina.
As they both embark on their respective paths, the focus remains on their shared experiences as parents and the legacy they continue to build through their sons. Their journey serves as a reminder that, even in the face of separation, familial bonds can remain strong.