LaVar Ball Says Lonzo Ball is the Final Piece to Cleveland Cavaliers’ Championship Puzzle
LaVar Ball is never one to shy away from bold claims—and his latest might be his most confident yet. Speaking on ESPN Cleveland, the outspoken father of NBA players Lonzo, LaMelo, and LiAngelo Ball, declared that Lonzo Ball is exactly what the Cleveland Cavaliers need to win an NBA title.
“Lonzo’s always been that piece you need for a championship,” LaVar said. “They’ve got to make everyone better. So, Cleveland just moved up to being the No. 1 team for the East.”
The Cavaliers, who made a second-round playoff appearance this past season, are already seen as a young and rising squad with talents like Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and All-Star Donovan Mitchell. However, LaVar insists that adding Lonzo—currently working his way back from a long-term knee injury—would elevate the team to title-contending status.
At his peak, Lonzo Ball was widely praised for his basketball IQ, court vision, defensive versatility, and ability to facilitate offensive flow. Before injuries derailed his career in Chicago, he was averaging over 13 points, 5 assists, and nearly 2 steals per game, all while shooting over 40% from three-point range.
The Cavaliers have been rumored to be exploring backcourt changes amid speculation surrounding Garland’s future with the team. A player like Lonzo—if healthy—could provide the pass-first, defensive-minded guard presence that complements a scorer like Mitchell and gives Mobley more freedom in the paint.
LaVar’s comments will undoubtedly stir debate, especially given Lonzo’s extended absence from the league. But if Lonzo can return to form, it’s not far-fetched to believe he could become a valuable asset to a team like Cleveland.
Whether it’s hype or foreshadowing, one thing is certain: LaVar Ball still believes his son is destined to be a difference-maker on the championship stage.