After making an inappropriate comment to First Take host Molly Qerim, LaVar Ball will not be appearing on ESPN anytime soon. The network has reportedly banned him saying “There will be no LaVar Ball on any ESPN platform heading forward – at least as of now…. We have no plans moving forward.”
There will be no LaVar Ball on any ESPN platform heading forward — at least as of now. Asked if Ball will be used as an on-air guest, an on-the-record source for digital, or a background source for ESPN, an ESPN spokesperson said,"We have no plans moving forward."
— Richard Deitsch (@richarddeitsch) June 19, 2019
Ball appeared on ESPN to talk about the trade of his son Lonzo Ball to the New Orleans Pelicans. When Molly Qerim tried to move on in their discussion and asked if they could “switch gears”, he responded with “You can switch gears with me anytime.” Watch the video below:
LaVar shooting his shot at Molly Qerim during First Take interview? Jalen Rose gonna bust him up lol pic.twitter.com/HeIB9CFIxH
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) June 17, 2019
It’s a little cringey to watch… It’s great that ESPN is supporting her and having her back in this situation.
But, this isn’t the first time he has had an uncomfortable exchange on-air with a female host. Two years ago he was openly dismissive to FS1’s Kristine Leahy and told her to “stay in your lane” on an episode of The Herd.
Hopefully after ESPN banned him, he will learn his lesson and learn to be more respectful on and off air.