Fansided

Lonzo Ball’s first sneaker priced at $200

By Chengez Khan

Mar 4, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Lavar Ball embraces his son UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) after the game against the Washington State Cougars at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Lavar Ball embraces his son UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) after the game against the Washington State Cougars at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sneakerheads are going to have to spend quite a bit if they want a pair of Lonzo Ball’s debut signature shoes.

Big Baller Brand, the athletic apparel company run by Lonzo’s father, LaVar, is looking to price Lonzo’s first sneaker at $200.

Though he is a top prospect in this year’s NBA Draft, the lofty price tag for Lonzo’s shoe would be more expensive than the signature shoes of several NBA superstars.

"LeBron James’ LeBron XIV retails at $175, with the customizable XIV iD series ringing up $220 before tax. Kevin Durant’s latest KD9 comes in at $150, while James Harden’s Harden Vol. 1 Series with Adidas run $140. Under Armour debuted Steph Curry’s Curry 3’s at $149.99, but has since slashed the price to $99.99."

This should not be surprising to anyone who has been following the Ball family in the media over the last several months. LaVar Ball has earned a reputation for making audacious comments regarding his three sons.

While a father’s confidence in his child is admirable, only time will tell whether or not this is a smart business move. A $200 shoe from a company not named Nike, Adidas or Under Armour is a very bold choice. The news comes days after reports surfaced that each of the three aforementioned companies declined co-branded partnership offers from LaVar and Big Baller Brand.

"Ball’s contract demands have prompted Nike CEO Phil Knight to call Ball’s asking price “a bit steep,” and company consultant George Raveling to call Ball himself “the worst thing to happen to basketball in the last hundred years.”"

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LaVar’s brash comments and actions could put unnecessary pressure and scrutiny on Lonzo during his rookie season. But if Lonzo plays well on the court, the shoe looks great, and the Ball name continues to spread across the country, maybe a $200 signature shoe won’t seem like such a crazy idea.