LiAngelo Ball Reflects on Shoplifting Arrest and LaVar Ball Decision to Withdraw Him from UCLA
LiAngelo Ball, one of the three UCLA basketball players involved in a shoplifting incident in China last month, recently spoke publicly about his arrest in an interview on the Today show. The arrest resulted in his indefinite suspension from the Bruins, and in response, his father, LaVar Ball, made the decision to withdraw him from UCLA. This article delves into LiAngelo’s perspective on the incident, his experiences in a Chinese jail, and the reasoning behind the Balls’ choice to focus on his basketball career outside of college.
LiAngelo Account of the Shoplifting Incident
During the Today show interview, LiAngelo Ball opened up about the events that transpired in China. He explained that he and his teammates were out shopping when others began taking items. In the moment, LiAngelo admitted to following suit without much thought. It wasn’t until he returned to his hotel room that he realized the gravity of his actions and regretted his decision. The next morning, the Chinese police came to arrest him and his teammates, Jalen Hill and Cody Riley.
Life in a Chinese Jail
According to USA Today News, LiAngelo Ball vividly described his experience in a Chinese jail, stating that he spent around a day and a half in custody. He recounted how the authorities took away his personal belongings, including his clothes and shoestrings. He was provided with a simple jumpsuit and was confined to a cement cell. The language barrier made communication difficult as the officers didn’t speak English. LiAngelo’s account offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of his time in the Chinese jail and the challenges he faced.
LaVar Ball’s Decision to Withdraw LiAngelo from UCLA
Following the shoplifting incident and LiAngelo’s subsequent suspension from the UCLA basketball team, his father, LaVar Ball, made the controversial choice to withdraw him from the university. LaVar explained that China had dropped the charges and expressed frustration with the ongoing punishment imposed by UCLA. He believed that LiAngelo’s primary goal was to play basketball and saw no need for him to continue his college education. LaVar asserted his commitment to train LiAngelo for the NBA, aiming to secure a successful professional career for his son.
LaVar Ball’s Ambitious Plans
LaVar Ball is known for his ambitious plans for his sons’ basketball careers. With his eldest son, Lonzo Ball, already playing for the Los Angeles Lakers after being selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the NBA draft, LaVar envisions a similar trajectory for LiAngelo and his youngest son, LaMelo. He confidently stated that all his sons would eventually join the Lakers, emphasizing his unwavering dedication to their success.
Criticism and Controversy
LaVar Ball’s outspoken nature and grandiose plans have not been without criticism. Many skeptics view his actions as exploitative, arguing that he is prioritizing his personal ambitions over his sons’ well-being. Some question the wisdom of removing LiAngelo from UCLA, as college basketball provides a platform for player development and exposure to NBA scouts. Critics argue that leaving college early may hinder LiAngelo’s growth and limit his opportunities in professional basketball.
