LaMelo Ball Getting 5 Tattoo Artists to Draw Unreal Design Sets off NBA Fans: “Why Does this Rich Kid Think He’s Hard?

A picture of LaMelo Ball's new tattoos surfaced online, showing off two full arm sleeves connected to his chest piece. He also has his entire back inked with his infamous saying that reads, "Rare One."

LaMelo Ball Getting 5 Tattoo Artists to Draw Unreal Design Sets off NBA Fans: “Why Does this Rich Kid Think He’s Hard?

LaMelo Ball (Image via FirstSportz)

Chicago Hornets star LaMelo Ball is once again making headlines—this time from the fans’ perspective. His latest batch of tattoos has sparked a wave of reactions across the NBA community. Known for past run-ins with the league over his body ink, Ball’s newest additions have only fueled further discussion among fans worldwide.

Since his tattoos are hidden beneath his shirt, the majority of them are missed when he is playing. He was, however, shirtless and had a large area of his torso and upper body smeared in ink in a recent photo that was uploaded on X. Most fans didn’t like this because they thought it was a little too much and unworthy of an NBA star.

Furthermore, some admirers even made personal attacks regarding his appearance and demeanor. Even though the tattoos had nothing to do with his performance, some fans even went so far as to point out his game. In 47 games this season, the former All-Star averaged 25.2 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.9 rebounds.

However, Ball is known for his ‘bad-boy’ character in the league. Not only tattoos, the league has also found him guilty of many wrongdoings, like uttering curse words on live TV, offensive statements, overdoing celebrations, etc. These actions have led to multiple bans and restrictions from the NBA towards Ball in the past.

One thing Melo will need to work on this 2025-26 NBA season is to stay fit. This past season, he could play only a limited number of games before nursing injuries to his right wrist and right ankle. For the Hornets to do consistently well, their star man must stay fit throughout the season, something the medical team would have to work on.

Fans left baffled after coming across LaMelo Ball’s new tattoos

Online, a photo of LaMelo Ball’s new tattoos appeared, showcasing two full arm sleeves that were attached to his chest design. Additionally, his renowned quote, “Rare One,” is permanently inscribed across his entire back. The images of LaMelo Ball’s new tattoos were shared by California tattoo artist Herchell L. Carrasco.

His most recent tattoo showcased that five tattoo artists were working on it. However, these recent tattoo images have not gone down well with the fans.

Many of them took to various social media apps and sites to put forward their views regarding Melo’s new ink. One fan wrote on X, “Why does this rich kid think he’s hard?” Check out some of the reactions below:

Given that some people in the league don’t appear to think he should be named alongside some of the NBA’s best players, the 2021 Rookie of the Year has a lot of work ahead of him. Additionally, Charlotte has had to cope with the increasing need for Ball to relocate in search of better opportunities.

The NBA made a clear case regarding LaMelo Ball’s ‘LF’ tattoo in 2023

LaMelo Ball was ordered by the NBA in 2023 to hide a tattoo beneath his left ear that the league claims is against the regulations prohibiting players from displaying commercial branding on their bodies. According to Ball’s close associates, the ban had not been regularly enforced.

LaMelo Ball
LaMelo Ball (Credits: NBA/X)

LaFrance, Ball’s middle name and now his clothing brand, is represented by the initials “LF” that are tattooed on his torso. Per ESPN, the NBA later reversed its decision.

The new impression beneath Ball’s left ear that attracted the league’s attention during the preseason was much more noticeable than the similar tattoo he had on his left hand. All said and done, Ball would need to keep a check on his appearance along with his on-court and off-court behavior if he were to go far in the NBA.

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