LiAngelo “GELO” Ball Breaks Silence on Rashida Nicole Divorce

News of LiAngelo Ball’s divorce from influencer Rashida Nicole may have shocked fans, but the rapper and basketball star isn’t losing sleep over it.

Just hours after headlines broke that the couple was splitting — only six months after going public — Ball sat down with Billboard News and addressed the online buzz.

“When people talk about my personal life, it don’t touch me or bother me too much,” said GELO (real name: LiAngelo Ball). “I see it, of course — everybody got a phone. But it don’t rub me the wrong way or nothing, because nobody really goes through what I go through every day. You not me, for real. So it don’t mean sh–, for real.”

The “Tweaker” hitmaker, whose breakout single launched him into music fame this year, said he only values the opinions of close friends and family. “I don’t even know half the people saying anything,” he added. “And everybody I know rock with me. Sh–, there it is. I be feeling good when I step out. Got love.”

The pair first went public in February when Rashida Nicole, a podcaster and influencer, was spotted courtside during GELO’s performance at the 2025 NBA All-Star Game. TMZ captured photos of the couple leaving a Southern California courthouse in matching all-white outfits, fueling marriage rumors at the time.

They were last seen together publicly at the 2025 BET Awards on June 9.

Just weeks before the divorce news, Nicole revealed on Instagram that she’s pregnant with what would be the couple’s first child together — and her second overall. GELO has two other children, LaVelo and LaNiyah, with ex Nikki Mudarris.

Nicole opened up about her pregnancy journey, writing:

“Wish I had all the right words to describe this journey, but… I’m grateful, terrified, anxious, nauseous, HANGRY … all of thee above. As a teen mom, I was always hesitant about going through pregnancy and parenthood again. I choose to protect my peace and this beautiful energy.”

Meanwhile, GELO’s career is soaring. In January, he signed with Def Jam and dropped “Tweaker,” which peaked at No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Rhythmic Airplay chart. A Lil Wayne-assisted remix followed in February, further cementing his musical success. His debut album, League of My Own, drops July 18.

MainEvent.News Spin:

The public may be quick to react to celebrity relationship drama, but there’s a deeper lens to consider. In today’s era of constant online commentary, GELO’s unapologetic dismissal of public opinion reflects a growing trend: celebrities guarding their peace. Despite personal upheaval, Ball’s focus on family, music, and mental clarity is something many young adults — in and out of the spotlight — can relate to. His story isn’t just about headlines and heartbreak, it’s about navigating fame while staying grounded.