In a press release from the JBA, LaVar Ball and LaMelo Ball issued an official statement after the latter got into a physical altercation with a player from Alytus Dzukija during an exhibition game.
LaMelo, the youngest brother of Los Angeles Lakers point guard Lonzo Ball, had this to say about the incident:
“I am disappointed with what took place on court, because I want to always do the right thing. I reacted in the heat of the moment, and let my team down. I’m not perfect and accept responsibility for my actions,” – acknowledged LaMelo Ball. “Alytus is a great team, and I have no problem with any of those players. I apologize to anyone I offended. I learned my lesson on how to stay focused, as your opponent trys to take you out of the game.”
LaVar Ball, Lonzo and LaMelo's father, had similar sentiments and expressed his gratitude to Alytus for hosting the JBA USA team:
“We have to understand that in every game of this JBA World Tour we are guests, and we must respect our hosts. I am not going to analyze this situation. The bottom line is players must keep their cool, control emotions, and fight by playing competitive basketball on the court. I want to thank Alytus team and entire organization for a great game, and excellent hospitality.”
Meanwhile, Alytus head coach (and former Olympic bronze medalist) Tomas Pacesas was gracious in his response and, while disappointed by their lack of self-control, understanding of the temperaments of the young players:
“Emotional situation, emotional game, and young players did not have proper self-control. There is no excuse for such behavior, obviously, but we as hosts, also, lacked some culture. I mean, guests must be welcomed with proper respect. I am glad we had an opportunity to play a game against JBA USA, and our young players had a chance to measure up against these talents from USA. I have no doubt that spectators enjoyed the game and the atmosphere. I don’t think we should talk about that unfortunate moment anymore.”
After LaMelo's ejection, JBA would lose the game despite holding a 15-point lead (69-54) in the third quarter. LaMelo Ball, a five-star recruit for the Class of 2019 (per ESPN) is widely expected to make the leap to the NBA and follow in his oldest brother's footsteps.
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