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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Michael Mulford

LiAngelo Ball: UCLA shoplifting incident ‘made me who I am today’

LiAngelo Ball has been on a journey unlike his brother’s. Lonzo and LaMelo.

Though Lonzo and LaMelo’s paths to the NBA were different, they’ve reached their destination. LiAngelo is still attempting to earn a spot on an NBA roster.

LiAngelo Ball recently spoke with The Athletic’s Shams Charania to discuss his journey, which includes leaving UCLA following the shoplifting incident in China.

“It made me who I am today. I done dealt with so much. I done heard everything — good and bad. Nothing really bothers me. My skin is thick,” LiAngelo said.

When on a trip to China to open the 2017-18 season with the UCLA basketball team, Ball, alongside teammates Cody Riley and Jalen Hill, was arrested for stealing sunglasses in a Louis Vuitton store.

Following being released from custody and being suspended indefinitely, Ball withdrew from UCLA and soon signed with the Lithuanian Basketball League.

“When I play today, I just keep that same energy.  For sure, people cast judgment. I was young, I don’t look back on that. I just learned from it and kept pushing. I’m not gonna let one decision mess up my whole life.”

LiAngelo remains a free agent as he awaits a contract offer following an impressive showing in summer league with the Hornets, averaging 9.6 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 34.5% from 3-point range.

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