LiAngelo Ball—famously the middle child of the Ball brothers, California basketball royalty since their teenage years—is making waves, not on the court but in the studio. The sole Ball brother not currently in the NBA is stepping into the rap game under the moniker G3, and last week, he premiered his debut single, “Tweaker,” during a live stream. To the surprise of many, the track blends singsong flows with a bouncy, Mouse on tha Track-inspired beat that could easily fuel an HBCU marching band’s halftime show. The unexpected quality of the song—and its irresistibly memeable energy—has fans and skeptics alike buzzing.

While “Tweaker” might be more humorous than groundbreaking, it’s undeniably catchy. The track’s playful “woahs” and “ahhs” give it a quirky charm, while the retro Louisiana rap vibe adds an element of nostalgia. Imagining the Ball brothers poring over Big Tymers classics or dissecting loose tracks from Baton Rouge legends like 70th Street Carlos is hilarious, but the truth is probably simpler: LiAngelo, like many of his peers, is influenced by modern Southern rap powerhouses like YoungBoy Never Broke Again and Kevin Gates, artists who often channel the same Louisiana lineage.

A Surprising Viral Hit

“Tweaker” has quickly become the internet’s favorite inside joke, with its fusion of humor, confidence, and surprisingly listenable production. It's the kind of song that thrives in the social media age, where a funny lyric or an unconventional delivery can spark a meme avalanche. Despite the humor, there’s a genuine spark in “Tweaker” that hints at LiAngelo’s potential to grow as an artist.

The Bigger Picture

While it’s tempting to dismiss “Tweaker” as a one-off viral moment, LiAngelo seems intent on taking his music seriously—or at least seriously enough to drop teasers of what’s next. Early reactions to the next snippet suggest an evolution in his sound, one that may veer away from the purely comedic and into something more polished.

LiAngelo’s pivot to music is a reminder that the Ball brothers are more than just athletes—they’re pop culture figures with the ability to turn any venture into a headline. Whether “Tweaker” is the first step in a new chapter or just a hilarious detour, one thing’s certain: LiAngelo Ball’s rap debut has people talking.

And maybe, just maybe, the next track will prove he’s not just here for laughs. Until then, we’ll be woah-ing and ahh-ing along to “Tweaker,” enjoying the ride.