Raising kids is no small feat, especially when you’re an NBA legend juggling life on and off the court. Some stars have taken family life to another level, with large families that rival their on-court accomplishments. Let’s explore 15 NBA players who’ve become MVPs at home with their children.
Calvin Murphy
Calvin Murphy leads the pack with an incredible 14 children from nine women. A Hall of Famer and a two-time NBA All-Star, Murphy was known for his scoring abilities. His family life is as dynamic as his career, representing the joys and complexities of raising a large brood.
Jason Caffey
Former Chicago Bull Jason Caffey has ten children with eight different women. Known for his role in the Bulls’ championship runs in the late ’90s, Caffey’s family life has been a topic of discussion, particularly regarding the financial responsibilities of such a large family.
Willie Anderson
Willie Anderson, the 10th overall pick in the 1988 NBA Draft, is the proud father of nine children with seven women. His career spanned several teams, but his off-court life often overshadowed his basketball achievements, particularly concerning child support issues.
Julius Erving
Recognized as one of the most gifted players in the NBA, Julius Erving popularized the slam dunk, making it an art form. Erving fathered eight children, including Jules and Julieta, with his second wife, Dorýs Madden. He was honored with a statue at UMass Amherst in 2021.
Shawn Kemp
Believe it or not, Kemp’s eldest son, Shawn Kemp Jr., plays for the University of Washington. Noted for his thunderous dunks, Kemp has seven children with six women. Throughout his NBA career, he averaged 14.6 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, earning six All-Star selections and a dominant reputation.
Karl Malone
Amassing 36,928 and 14 All-Star selections, Malone’s personal life was stacked with paternity disputes. Karl Malone had seven children from three relationships. Despite the controversies, he has worked to connect with his kids, including NFL player Demetress Bell.
Scottie Pippen
A central figure in the Chicago Bulls dynasty, Scottie Pippen has seven children: Antron, Taylor, Tyler, Sierra, Scotty Jr., Preston, and Sophia. Despite his high-profile career and personal struggles, Pippen has emphasized balancing family life, reflecting his dedication on the court and as a father.
Kenny Anderson
Seven children highlight Kenny Anderson’s extensive family life. Balancing his role as a father with his career, the former All-Star point guard had his children with partners, including a daughter with DJ Spinderella and two daughters with Tami Roman. Anderson’s NBA stats include 10,789 points and 5,196 assists.
Danny Ainge
Basketball legend Danny Ainge, a two-time Celtics champ, and his wife, Michelle, have a bustling family life with six children. Their kids—Austin, Tanner, Taylor, Cooper, Crew, and Ashley. Their family includes future Celtics talent Austin, who is following in his father’s footsteps, and grandchild Dre, who reflects Ainge’s legacy in sports and family.
Dominique Wilkins
The Human Highlight Film, 1985–86 NBA scoring champion and Hall of Famer, has a family that produced six children from two marriages. With Nicole Berry, he has Alysandra, Aiysha, Chloe, and Danielle. After marrying Robin Campbell, they had Jacob and Jolie.
Juwan Howard
From leading the Fab Five at Michigan to winning two NBA titles with the Miami Heat, Juwan Howard’s legacy extends to his family. With six children, including college players Juwan Jr. and Jett, his influence is evident on and off the court. His children continue his basketball legacy.
Shawn Bradley
At 7’6″, Shawn Bradley dominated the NBA with his shot-blocking skills, leading the league in blocks during the 1996-97 season. He has six children with his first wife, Annette Evertson, and three adopted children. Bradley’s life after basketball has been focused on family, particularly after a serious accident.
Scott Skiles
The tenacious NBA coach and former player has six children with four women. His parenting style mirrors his coaching ethos: focused and dedicated. Skiles played for teams including the Milwaukee Bucks and Orlando Magic, showcasing the same commitment to family life as he did on the court.
Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal, a four-time NBA champion, is a devoted father of five. He shares children with his former wife, Shaunie Nelson: Shareef, Shaqir, Amirah, and Me’arah, alongside daughter Taahirah from a previous relationship. Shareef has followed in his footsteps, playing for the Los Angeles Lakers and the G League Ignite.
Larry Johnson
“Grandmama” Larry Johnson was a powerhouse in the NBA, known for his strength and charisma. Johnson, with his ex-wife Celeste Wingfield, fathered five children, including Lance and Lasani. Juggling fatherhood with his NBA career, Johnson guides his family with strength and dedication.
15 NBA Stars Who Scored Big In The Family Department