NBA’s star brothers, LaMelo and Lonzo Ball, and their intellectual property company, BigBallerBrand, are venturing into the world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) by joining forces with Dubai-based crypto entity Ibloxx Studios.
The collaboration will see the Ball brothers become integral parts of Ibloxx’s latest game, “StrayShot.”
StrayShot is a point-based shooter game that operates on the Ethereum-based SKALE blockchain, boasting zero-gas fees. In the game, players can accumulate points to enhance their reputation and earn rewards.
As per the agreement, besides promoting the game, the Ball family will take on active roles as playable characters, with BigBallerBrand items being incorporated as both in-game collectibles and NFTs.
Within StrayShot, NFTs take various forms — including skins or outfits, players, and weapons. Players can gain these NFTs through in-game achievements, exploration, or by buying them from a marketplace.
The partnership between the Ball family and Ibloxx Studios extends beyond the gaming world. The collaboration also includes the release of the Ball NFT collection, which will be exclusive and tradable across all major NFT marketplaces, including OpenSea.
StrayShot is also in the works to create its own digital gaming assets marketplace, giving players the chance to buy in-game NFTs and enhancing their gaming experience.
This is not the Ball family’s first foray into the Web3 space. In February 2022, LaMelo Ball filed three trademark applications for “LAMELO BALL,” “1 OF 1,” and “M.E.L.O.,” signaling his keen interest in exploring the metaverse. In June, LaMelo Ball teamed up with PUMA Hoops and Gutter Cat Gang to introduce the “Guttermelo” NFT sneakers.
