New Parenthood and Philanthropic Endeavor
Charlotte Hornets player LaMelo Ball and his partner, model Ana Montana, have announced the arrival of their first child, a son named LaOne. The child was born in January. The couple shared this news on Mother's Day, May 10, 2026, exclusively with People magazine.
"Welcoming LaOne into the world has changed our hearts in the best way," the couple stated. "Family has always meant everything to us, but becoming parents has given us an entirely new perspective on love, purpose, legacy and what truly matters most."
In conjunction with the birth announcement, Montana is launching 'I Am Fertility,' a nonprofit organization. This initiative aims to assist women navigating fertility journeys, particularly those undergoing IVF treatments. The nonprofit will provide financial aid through 'The HOPE Grant,' offering $5,000 to two women this year. Grant applications are set to open on Mother's Day and will close on June 1.
The announcement of LaOne's birth and the concurrent launch of the 'I Am Fertility' nonprofit highlight a dual focus on personal milestones and community support for aspiring parents.
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Details of the Announcement and Background
The news of LaOne's birth was further disseminated through various outlets, with some publications noting the son's name shares a similarity with his father's. Montana, whose given name is Analicia Chaves, has publicly shared that she conceived LaOne through IVF.
LaMelo Ball, point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, and Montana have expressed their profound gratitude and excitement for this new chapter.
"He has brought so much happiness and meaning into our lives, and we're incredibly grateful to God for trusting us with such a special blessing," they added. "We're embracing this new chapter with so much love and excitement as we raise and guide our son together."
Montana's nonprofit seeks to offer comprehensive support, including education, emotional guidance, trusted resources, and reproductive health awareness.
Family Context and Broader Implications
The arrival of LaOne places LaMelo Ball within a family known for its prominent presence in basketball, including his father, LaVar Ball, founder of the Big Baller Brand, and his brothers, Lonzo and LiAngelo Ball. While some media commentary has touched upon the family's naming conventions, the primary narrative focuses on the couple's personal joy and their commitment to assisting others.
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Ball's NBA season saw him play 72 regular-season games, averaging 20.1 points and 7.1 assists. Despite past injury struggles, particularly with his ankles, he demonstrated increased availability this season. The Hornets reached the NBA Play-In Tournament, though their playoff run was cut short. The nonprofit's mission extends beyond personal celebration, addressing the growing need for support in fertility treatments.
