It came as a surprise on Tuesday when reports surfaced that Lonzo Ball would be leaving Creative Artists Agency, better known as CAA. Ball only signed with CAA in April of 2019 after parting ways with Harrison Gaines who served as his agent during the first two years of Ball’s career.
Ball was joined first at CAA by brothers LaMelo and LiAngelo then by new teammate Zion Williamson. With the family being in the entertainment market through their Facebook show “Ball in the Family” as well as being athletes, CAA seemed like an ideal fit for the brothers.
The family’s exit from the company could stem from Leon Rose’s move from CAA to the New York Knicks’ front office. While it’s not known specifically if Rose was agents from the Ball family, different reports at different times linked Rose to both Lonzo and LaMelo during their time at CAA.
The move away from CAA could also be a precursor for something much bigger for the Balls. Earlier this season, LaVar Ball was spotted sitting courtside with Rich Paul during a Lakers-Pelicans game in Los Angeles earlier this season.
Lonzo was close to LeBron James during their time with the Lakers together. Ball appeared on James’ show The Shop and spoke about his experience with Alan Foster. Reports circulated that the two grew closer at the end of their lone season together as both finished the year on the sideline injured.
The added interesting aspect this time around is LaMelo Ball’s potential involvement. While it’s not reported that LaMelo left the agency, the family has operated as a whole in the past in this regard. And Klutch Sports has made a habit in the past of latching onto highly-rated prospects in the NBA Draft.
Last season, Klutch represented Darius Garland, the No. 5 pick in the NBA Draft. Klutch also represents Alonzo Trier, Miles Bridges and Dejounte Murray, all recent young draftees. Ball would certainly be the highest profile prospect they’ve signed but he fits the bill with Klutch.
For Lonzo, the move also months before extension talks will start with the New Orleans Pelicans. Ball has just one guaranteed year left on his contract before he hits restricted free agency in 2021.
And LiAngelo appears to be working his way into the NBA conversation as well. He was recently offered a G League contract after spending two months with the Oklahoma City Blue as a practice squad player. He’s likely to have offers to play in the Summer League in Las Vegas in July as well.
It will all lead to a very fascinating decision for Lonzo and potentially his brothers. Whether he lands with Klutch Sports or another agency, the trio have a fascinating future that makes their choice all the more intriguing.