'baller' originates from English, specifically from the noun/verb 'ball' plus the agentive suffix '-er', where 'ball' (verb) meant 'to play ball (to play sports, especially basketball)'.

'baller' developed in American English slang (notably AAVE influence) in the late 20th century from earlier uses of 'ball' (to play ball) and the agentive '-er', forming 'baller' as 'one who balls' (a player). Over time the term broadened beyond literal players to describe wealthy or flashy individuals.

Initially it meant 'a person who plays ball (esp. basketball)'; over time it evolved into the current slang sense of 'a very successful/wealthy or flashy person' in addition to the literal sports sense.