LiAngelo Ball Signs $13M Record Deal Following “Tweaker” Success

LiAngelo Ball, often in the shadow of his NBA star brothers Lonzo and LaMelo, has successfully carved a niche in the music industry. Known as “G3,” his move from basketball to music has achieved remarkable success, highlighted by the viral sensation of his song “Tweaker.”

His musical achievements earned him a lucrative record deal, potentially worth up to $13 million, with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, including a guaranteed $8 million. Released on January 3, the track quickly resonated with audiences, evoking a sense of 2000s hip-hop nostalgia.

The track’s catchy hook and rhythm have gained traction far beyond basketball, becoming a favourite in NBA and NFL locker rooms, creating a buzz on social media, and even prompting on-air dancing from “Inside the NBA” co-host Shaquille O’Neal. Notable artists like Lil Yachty, T-Pain, and Joe Budden have also lauded the track, boosting its prominence.

LiAngelo Ball has signed a $13M contract ($8M guaranteed) with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, his label Born2Ball Music Group tells @ShamsCharania

Gelo retains FULL OWNERSHIP of his music and record label pic.twitter.com/8Z3BIqPTWu

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 13, 2025

The deal highlights LiAngelo’s expanding influence in the music world. His guaranteed earnings surpass 151 active NBA players in 2025, including notable athletes like Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard and Detroit Pistons centre Jalen Duren.

Despite not playing in any NBA regular-season games, his track “Tweaker” has permeated various sports arenas, including the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers locker rooms, and the Detroit Lions’. The song has sparked viral dance challenges and featured in NBA teams’ game-day presentations.

LiAngelo Ball has reportedly signed an $8 million record deal with Def Jam, per @breakfastclubam

(h/t @DimeUPROXX ) pic.twitter.com/DlpTD4pYgT

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 13, 2025

At a Detroit Pistons game, LiAngelo’s brother, LaMelo, experienced the song’s impact firsthand when a TikTok user recited the lyrics, drawing laughter from LaMelo, who scored 35 points, securing his team’s victory.

LiAngelo’s post-basketball chapter has allowed him to redefine his legacy. After an undrafted start in 2018, he played basketball in Lithuania, participated in LaVar Ball’s JBA league, briefly competed in the NBA G-League, and joined a team in Mexico. Yet, his music career has spotlighted him, proving success can take various forms. His journey underscores the importance of persistence and reinvention.