Lonzo Ball has been having better stat games lately in Vegas Summer League, but that hasn’t been the big topic of discussion. Since Ball ditched his signature BBB ZO2 shoes, he’s recorded two consecutive triple doubles. He’s worn Kobe Bryant’s Nike signature shoe and James Harden’s Adidas shoe. When asked about his shoe choices post game, Lonzo said BBB allows him to do what he wants. That’s what being a “Big Baller” is all about.
This is yet again, brilliant marketing by the Ball family. So far Lonzo’s had great games in Nike and Adidas brand shoes. Will he wear UA next? When the season begins, Lonzo will not be playing exclusively in BBB branded shoes. Basketball players wear their shoes twice, three times max a season before they switch pairs. 82 regular season games, plus the preseason and the playoffs if you’re lucky. That’s a lot of pairs of shoes. BBB doesn’t have that many ZO2’s on hand, as they’re made to order.
The more and more we talk about Lonzo and his play, we will focus on what he’s wearing. Just look at the coverage summer league is getting right now. This is primarily because of the mystery, hype, whatever you want to call it, around Lonzo. Controversy and frenzied intrigue are commodities. The major apparel companies recognize this. What might end up happening is these companies decide to enter a bidding war. Now, they know a traditional shoe deal is not what LaVar had in mind. The Ball’s may get a first of it’s kind type deal. Not as crazy as it might sound. LaVar believes everything is happening by design, no reason to think securing the right shoe deal is unlikely.
Watch Lonzo talk about BBB and his sneaker choices.