Jalen Green’s girlfriend, Draya Michele, is of mixed ethnic background. Her father was of African-American descent, and her mother is Italian.
Her father passed away on Mother’s Day in 2021.
Jalen Green and Draya Michele have been in the spotlight since they began dating in August 2023.
Despite keeping their relationship relatively private, their love story has captivated fans and sparked debates due to their 18-year age gap.
Jalen is a rising basketball phenom for the Houston Rockets at 23, while Draya, 40, is a well-known entrepreneur and former cast member of the reality show Basketball Wives.
Although critics questioned their romance, the couple has remained unfazed.
Draya frequently attends Jalen’s games to cheer him on, and the NBA star has even tattooed her name on his stomach.
Their bond grew stronger when they welcomed their first child together, a daughter, on May 12, 2024.
It was Jalen’s first child, but Michele’s third. She has two sons, Kniko and Jru, from her previous relationships. The NBA star has successfully balanced fatherhood with his NBA career.
Despite the scrutiny, the couple continues to prioritize their family, proving that love knows no age.
In 2021 on Mother’s Day, my dad passed away. Since then, it’s been extremely hard to celebrate that day without remembering the earth shattering phone call I received that morning. Well, this Mother’s Day was different. My daughter was safely brought into this world and I’m forever grateful for the new memories we all get to experience moving forward. 🩶 Love + Light everyone.
Draya Michele
Draya Michele’s Parents Raised Her In A Supportive Environment
Andraya Michele Howard, the daughter of Valeria Diaz, was born on January 23, 1985, in Reading, Pennsylvania.
Her parents raised her in a close-knit family and were exceptionally supportive of the up-and-coming Hollywood icon.
An Independent Entrepreneur Mother
Draya Michele’s mother, Valeria Diaz, is the strong, supportive pillar behind her.
She is of Italian descent, renowned for her independent spirit and entrepreneurial mindset. Later, she passed down her qualities to her daughter.
Draya has frequently shared glimpses of their close bond on social media, giving fans a look at the woman who helped shape her into the successful businesswoman she is today.
However, their relationship goes beyond just love and admiration. Valeria was her rock during one of the most challenging times of her life.
Draya became pregnant with her first child at the age of 17. Her situation became problematic when, seven months into her pregnancy, her then-boyfriend was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Valeria stepped in, providing unwavering love and support as facing motherhood alone as a teenager could have derailed her future.
At 17 years old I got pregnant by a man who became incarcerated for 10 when I was 7 months pregnant. With help from my mom, I was able to survive.
Draya Michele
Moreover, Draya credits her mother for helping her through that difficult period, ensuring she never gave up.
Valeria’s strength and guidance allowed her to push forward, eventually building a thriving career in fashion, beauty, and entertainment.
A Father Passed Away On Mother’s Day
In May 2021, while many were sharing heartfelt Mother’s Day tributes, actress and model Draya Michele revealed that she was grieving the devastating loss of her father.
She did not disclose the exact cause of his passing but asked for privacy and respect as she navigated the complicated grieving process.
Losing a loved one is never easy, and the pain is often magnified when it happens on a day meant for celebration. On May 10, she shared an emotional tribute to her father on Instagram.
🕊REST IN HEAVEN DAD 🕊 .. yesterday was one of my hardest days. While everyone was celebrating the wonderful mother’s of the world, I was losing my father. I love you dad, you suffered for years and needed not to any longer. I’m glad you’re at peace and with GOD. I’m glad I went home and got to see you while you were still in good spirits 🤎 I will celebrate your life forever.
Draya Michele
Draya’s words suggested that her father had been battling an illness for some time, allowing her the chance to visit him before his passing.
Her post reflected a bittersweet farewell that acknowledged both his suffering and his newfound peace.
She has kept her family life, which has accompanied her rise to fame, out of the public eye.
Even in her grief, she shared only what she felt necessary, honoring her father’s memory while maintaining her family’s privacy.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Draya Michele rose to stardom as the girlfriend of Chris Brown.
- She was part of the freshman cast of the VH1 series Basketball Wives LA in 2011 and made her first scripted acting debut in TV One’s Will to Love.
- She launched her swimwear line, Mint Swim, in 2011; her lifestyle clothing line, Fine Ass Girls, launched in 2013; and another clothing line, Beige & Coco, in November 2016.
- As of 2025, her net worth is estimated to be $ 600,000.
