A professional basketball player in the NBA, Gary Payton II surprises his mother by earning a college degree. This achievement not only demonstrates his dedication to education, but also shows the impact that education can have on an individual’s life and their loved ones.
Gary Payton II Surprises His Mom
Gary Payton II kept his pursuit of a college degree a secret from his family, including his mother. He didn’t want to add any pressure or expectations to himself, and he wanted to surprise his mother with the news once he had completed his degree. 30 year old finally received his diploma in human development and family science from Oregon State University just few weeks earlier and shared the news with his mother. “It was really for Moms, Monique. I made her a promise to get it done and finish when I left school, so keeping my word and got that to her”, Payton said.
The Impact on Gary Payton II and His Family
The achievement of earning a college degree has had a significant impact on Gary Payton II and his family. It demonstrates that he values education and is dedicated to personal growth, even as a professional athlete. It also serves as an inspiration for his younger siblings and other aspiring athletes to prioritize education and pursue their academic goals. For his mother, the surprise of her son earning a college degree was a proud moment and a testament to her role as a supportive and loving mother.
Gary Payton II’s Basketball Career
Gary Payton II followed in the footsteps of his father, Gary Payton, a retired NBA player and Hall of Famer. Gary Payton II played college basketball at Oregon State University and went on to play professionally in the NBA G League and eventually the NBA. He has played for several teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers and the Washington Wizards.
The Importance of Education
Despite his success on the court, Gary Payton II understood the importance of education. He recognized that basketball would not last forever and that a college degree could open doors to other opportunities. Payton II made the decision to go back to school and pursue a degree in liberal studies from California State University-Dominguez Hills.
Gary Payton II’s surprise college degree is a testament to the importance of education and the impact it can have on an individual’s life and their loved ones. It is an inspiring achievement that showcases Payton II’s dedication to personal growth and serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their academic goals.
FAQs
Gary Payton II has played for several teams in his professional career, including the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Salt Lake City Stars, Wisconsin Herd, Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Washington Wizards.
Gary Payton II is 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) tall and weighs 190 pounds (86 kg).
Gary Payton II played college basketball at Oregon State University from 2013 to 2016. He was named to the Pac-12 All-Defensive Team and the All-Pac-12 Second Team in his junior year.
