Michael Jordan on LaVar Ball: ‘I’d tell him to shut up and just let the kids play’ (video)

LaVar Ball, love him or loathe him, has done a great job of capturing attention.

He’s a TV and internet star. Shaquille O’Neal released a song about him. And now even Michael Jordan – whom Ball infamously said he could beat one-on-one – is addressing Lonzo Ball’s father.

Jordan, via Bay Area HQ:

Every parent is very proud of their kids. I don’t discourage that. I think the kid is really good. I think he has the potential to be a good player. His father is obviously proud of him, of all his kids obviously – like any father would be proud of his kids, obviously

But I would say, if I had to sit down and talk to him right now – if you guys were not here – I’d tell him to shut up and just let the kids play.

You guys have to understand the source. He played, I think, college, maybe? He averaged 2.2 points a game. Really? It doesn’t deserve an answer, but I’m going to give it to you because you asked the question. I don’t think he could beat me if I was one-legged.

It’s really a credit to Lonzo that he has maintained his poise and focus amid all the noise. But I do wonder how LaVar affects him, especially when LaVar disparages Lonzo’s Lakers teammates and opponents.

As far as a one-on-one game between LaVar and Jordan, I never understood the fascination. Of course, Jordan would win. To me, it’s just not interesting. Man says something outlandish and obviously false. Who cares? But many are drawn to the storyline – to the point Jordan got asked about it and addressed it. That’s a huge win for LaVar in his ongoing efforts to promote himself.