In 2017, LaVar Ball made headlines with a bold prediction that would prove to be prophetic. The outspoken father and agent foretold that LeBron James would join the Los Angeles Lakers when his contract was due in 2018. At the time, James was still with the Cleveland Cavaliers, having just led them to the NBA title in 2016. LaVar’s prediction was met with skepticism, but he remained confident that James would make the move to Los Angeles.
LaVar’s prediction was not just about James joining the Lakers, but also about the potential chemistry between James and his son, Lonzo, who was expected to be a top pick in the 2017 NBA draft. “It’s going to be like this, and I’m talking about reality,” LaVar said. “He’s going to say, ‘You know what? I went to Miami. Won a championship. Brought one back to my hometown. I’m the only one to go to three different places and bring a championship.’”
LaVar also believed that James would love playing with Lonzo, citing their shared understanding of the game. “You do not give Lonzo Ball the best player in the game and don’t think they going to win,” he said. “He is going to fall in love with Lonzo so much on the way that he plays. They both understand the game. Best player in the NBA and you don’t think he coming? Stop it.”
Fast forward to July 2018, and LeBron James indeed signed with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lake Show opened the season with a 20-14 record and looked like they were going to make the playoffs for the first time since 2012-13. Unfortunately, injuries to LeBron, Lonzo, Rajon Rondo, and Brandon Ingram saw the Lakers miss the playoffs with a disappointing 37-45 record. Although the Lakers didn’t have a successful season that year, they would go on to win the championship the following year in the Orlando Bubble. LaVar’s prediction had come true, and LeBron had joined the Lakers, albeit without the successful season LaVar had predicted. Nevertheless, LaVar’s bold prediction will always be remembered as one of the most impressive in NBA history.
LaVar’s confidence in his prediction was rooted in his understanding of James’ career trajectory and his desire to play with top talent. James had already proven himself to be one of the greatest players in the league, and LaVar believed that he would be drawn to the Lakers’ young core, led by Lonzo. While the Lakers’ season was ultimately disappointing, LaVar’s prediction was a testament to his insight into James’ decision-making process.
In the end, LaVar’s prediction was a reminder that in the world of professional sports, anything can happen. And sometimes, the most unlikely predictions can become a reality.
