Gary Payton is one of the most significant point guards in the NBA of all time. The only point guard to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, Payton stepped down as one of the influencing NBA players.
Payton is best known for his 13-year career with the Seattle SuperSonics than other teams. He also played with the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Miami Heat.
Who Is Gary Payton Wife Monique James?
Gary Payton was married to his wife, Monique James. The two dated for an extended period until they officially tied the knot on July 26, 1997.
The couple is reported to have dated for more than ten years before their wedding.
The former Payton couple exchanged their vows in a very lavish wedding ceremony attended by many NBA stars and officials.
Sadly, the couple split in 2012 but chose to be each other’s support system when the time came. When Gary was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame 2016, he invited Monique to the ceremony.
Gary believed that Monique deserved every respect inducted towards him as she had been with him since the start and had helped him a lot in his life.
Meet Gary Payton Children
Gary Payton is a father to four children; 3 children from his marriage to Monique and one from an unknown relationship. His son, Gary Payton Jr., was born into a relationship.
Meanwhile, his sons Gary Payton II and Julian, and a daughter named Raquel, was born to Monique. Gary II and Raquel were already born when they got married in 1997.
Gary II has followed in his father’s footsteps as he is currently playing for the Golden State Warriors of the NBA.
Meanwhile, it is reported that Monique shares a motherly bond with Gary Payton Jr., although he was not born to her.
Such a heart for acceptance is what describes Monique as a big-hearted woman.
Gary Payton Divorce and Family Life After
Gary Payton got the 2012 divorce from Monique James, although they are friends.
After that, Monique ventured into her ways and established a nonprofit organization. She continues to mother her four children, including Gary Payton Jr.
Most of her Instagram feed is dedicated to her children’s pictures and videos.
It is reported that Gary’s countless infidelities are what prompted Monique to divorce him. Similarly, the NBA legend has also accepted his mistake and regrets the divorce and the torn-out family.
