Lonzo Ball, agent part ways; decision unrelated to BBB lawsuit
Los Angeles Lakers point guard Lonzo Ball and his agent have mutually agreed to part ways Thursday, he told ESPN's Ramona Shelburne in a statement.
"Harrison Gaines has been a trusted advisor and close friend for many years," said Ball. "He guided my NBA career with integrity and always had my best interests at heart."
The decision to end their working relationship is unrelated to Ball recently suing former Big Baller Brand co-founder Alan Foster for damages of more than $2 million for allegedly conspiring to embezzle money from both him and the company.
"Harrison has always had my back and although we will no longer be working together after mutually deciding to part ways; our relationship will always be bigger than basketball," Ball said.
Gaines has represented Ball since the 21-year-old departed UCLA following his freshman campaign in 2017. He was never officially a part of the Big Baller Brand, instead running his own agency, SLASH Sports, with such clients as former players Isaiah Austin and Jamaal Franklin.
"Lonzo Ball was the first client to sign with me. He has been nothing short of phenomenal and is one of the bright young NBA stars. I thank him and his family for giving me an opportunity," Gaines told ESPN in a statement. "Mutually, we have decided to part ways. I wish Lonzo great success in the future. As I turn this page, I will continue to work hard for all of my clients."
Ball has been out of action since Jan. 21 with an ankle injury.