UConn's Solo Ball Shines in March Madness, But Isn't Related to NBA's Ball Brothers

The talented Huskies center has made a name for himself, despite sharing a famous last name with LaMelo and Lonzo Ball.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 12:21am

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A cubist-style painting featuring fragmented, geometric shapes and planes in shades of blue, orange, and green, visually deconstructing the movements and skills of a basketball player in motion.Solo Ball's unique basketball talents are deconstructed into a cubist masterpiece, capturing the dynamic energy of his game.Indianapolis Today

Solomon Armstead Ball, known as Solo Ball, has been a standout player for the UConn Huskies in this year's NCAA men's basketball tournament. While his last name may draw comparisons to the famous Ball brothers in the NBA, Solo is not actually related to LaMelo, Lonzo, or LiAngelo Ball. Solo comes from a different family in Virginia, with his own basketball lineage and upbringing. Despite the name coincidence, Solo has carved out his own identity as a key contributor for the Huskies as they make a run to the national championship game.

Why it matters

The confusion over Solo Ball's relation to the Ball brothers highlights how a famous surname can overshadow an athlete's own accomplishments and identity. Solo has worked hard to establish himself as a talented college basketball player in his own right, and his performance in the tournament has earned him the spotlight. Separating him from the Ball brothers' legacy is important to recognize Solo's individual achievements.

The details

Solo Ball was born in Leesburg, Virginia in 2003. His father, Mike Ball, introduced him to basketball at a young age and coached him through demanding workouts and youth league teams. Solo's mother, Erica, has also been a steady presence supporting his basketball journey. While Solo comes from a family with basketball roots - his cousin Jaime Nared was drafted by the WNBA - he is not actually related to LaMelo, Lonzo, or LiAngelo Ball, the famous siblings who rose to prominence through their father LaVar's 'Big Baller Brand'. Solo has embraced the 'Ball' name, even though he faced some teasing about it growing up. Now a junior at UConn, Solo has emerged as a key player for the Huskies, averaging 12.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game this season.

  • Solo Ball was born on December 7, 2003 in Leesburg, Virginia.
  • Solo is currently a junior at the University of Connecticut.

The players

Solo Ball

A 6'9" junior center for the University of Connecticut Huskies men's basketball team, who has emerged as a key player in their run to the NCAA championship game.

Mike Ball

Solo Ball's father, who introduced him to basketball at a young age and coached him through demanding workouts and youth league teams.

Erica Ball

Solo Ball's mother, who has been a steady presence supporting his basketball journey.

Jaime Nared

Solo Ball's cousin, who was drafted by the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces.

Jackie Nared

Another cousin of Solo Ball who also played college basketball.

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What they’re saying

“He was really hard on me. I didn't care, though. If he yells at me, so what? He's just trying to get me better.”

— Solo Ball, UConn Basketball Player

“My dad coached me growing up, and my mom was the caretaker, but she was just as hard on me. I knew UConn is exactly where I needed to be.”

— Solo Ball, UConn Basketball Player

What’s next

Solo Ball's status for the NCAA championship game is uncertain due to a foot sprain he suffered in the semifinal win over Illinois. If he is able to play, he will look to help lead UConn to the national title.

The takeaway

While Solo Ball may share a famous last name with the Ball brothers of the NBA, he has carved out his own identity as a talented college basketball player. His family background and work ethic have shaped him into a key contributor for the UConn Huskies, showing that the 'Ball' name can represent more than just one basketball family.