In a year where unexpected crossovers are becoming the norm, 2025 has already delivered one of the most intriguing yet – LiAngelo Ball’s meteoric rise in the rap game. The 26-year-old, best known as the middle brother of NBA stars Lonzo and LaMelo Ball, is making waves with his hit single “Tweaker”. The track’s unapologetic 2000s vibe and infectious energy have propelled it up the charts, earning praise from fans and fellow rappers alike.
From Baller to Rapper: G3’s Unconventional Path
Unlike his siblings, LiAngelo’s basketball journey took a different route. After going undrafted in 2018, he had stints in the G League and overseas before turning his focus to music. Under the moniker “G3”, LiAngelo began to build a following with his raw, throwback sound that channels the essence of mid-2000s hip-hop.
His breakout moment arrived with “Tweaker”, a high-octane track that immediately caught fire online. Released exclusively on WorldstarHipHop’s YouTube channel, the song racked up a staggering 5.6 million views within a week. The buzz quickly translated to streaming success, with “Tweaker” cracking the top 10 on Spotify’s US chart.
“Tweaker” is more than just a catchy song – it’s a statement. LiAngelo is proving that he’s not content to stay in his brothers’ shadows. He’s carving his own lane and bringing that authentic, in-your-face energy that made 2000s rap so special.
Music critic Silas Wright
Winning Over the Pros: “Tweaker” Takes Over NBA Locker Rooms
LiAngelo’s sudden rise hasn’t gone unnoticed by his NBA peers. In fact, “Tweaker” has become a locker room anthem for several teams. The Cleveland Cavaliers were caught vibing to the track after a win, with star Donovan Mitchell giving LiAngelo a shoutout. The Detroit Lions also embraced the song during their playoff push.
Even more telling was the reaction from Damian Lillard, the Portland Trail Blazers star who moonlights as rapper Dame D.O.L.L.A. Lillard gave LiAngelo his stamp of approval, saying he “rocks with it and respects” what the young Ball is doing in music.
G3 Goes Mainstream: $13M Deal and Festival Billing
As “Tweaker” continued to gain traction, the music industry took notice. In a blockbuster move, LiAngelo inked a $13 million deal with Def Jam and Universal Music Group, with $8 million guaranteed. The partnership is a clear sign of the labels’ faith in LiAngelo’s potential as a breakout star.
LiAngelo’s mainstream arrival was further cemented by his booking at Rolling Loud California, one of hip-hop’s premier festivals. He’ll be sharing the stage with established stars like A$AP Rocky and Playboi Carti, a testament to his rapid ascent.
The Future Is Bright for G3
With “Tweaker” still climbing the charts and a major label deal in tow, LiAngelo Ball is poised for a huge 2025. His unique blend of nostalgia and modern energy has struck a chord with fans hungry for something fresh yet familiar. As he continues to refine his craft and build his catalog, don’t be surprised to see G3 become a fixture in the hip-hop landscape.
LiAngelo is bringing back that raw, unfiltered sound that made me fall in love with rap. He’s got the talent, the drive, and now the backing to really make a name for himself. 2025 is about to be the year of Gelo.
Rapper T-Pain
In an era where many new rappers chase trends and mimic what’s hot, LiAngelo Ball is betting on originality. By staying true to his roots and delivering the authentic sound he grew up on, he’s carving a lane that’s all his own. With the sports world already in his corner and the music industry now at his back, the sky’s the limit for this multi-talented phenom.
