LaVar Ball had part of his right leg amputated due to severe complications from diabetes. The ordeal began with an infection in his foot that spread through his bloodstream because he neglected his diabetes management. Initially, doctors amputated a few toes, then his foot, and eventually had to perform surgery to remove the leg almost up to the knee. This process involved three surgeries and four blood transfusions over a period starting around January 2025

. Ball described the experience as harrowing and at times mentally challenging, even expressing moments of despair where he questioned whether to continue fighting. However, the support and success of his three sons-Lonzo, LaMelo, and LiAngelo-helped him persevere. Despite losing his leg, he remains determined to continue his work and maintain a positive outlook on the future

. He has shared updates showing resilience and a focus on recovery, emphasizing that while he lost part of his leg, his mind and spirit remain strong