Basketball is one of the most played and watched sports around the US. Whether it is college games or professional league matches, millions of people tune in to cheer for their favorite teams and players. Well, the popular game has helped many young and old players find not only fame but also amass a fortune too. Among many popular individuals who have been a part of the game, today we will talk about Jared Dudley.
Jared not only found success as a basketball player but has also started his coaching career. He is currently serving as an assistant coach for an NBA team but many fans are also interested in knowing more about his personal life.
Where Is Jared Dudley From?
The talented basketball star was born Jared Anthony Dudley in San Diego, California, on July 10, 1985. He grew up alongside his brother Milan Dudley, who is 6 years older than him. Jared Dudley’s mother, Melinda Schall raised the siblings on her own ever since the basketball coach was two-years-old. She became the Dudley brother’s mom and dad both and raised them well.
Moreover, Jared, who stands at 6 feet 6 inches, showed interest in basketball early on. And Melinda who worked at a law firm in Solana Beach would take him to basketball practice after completing her 9 to 5 job. Dudley has stated that his mother sacrificed a lot so that he and his brother could have a wonderful childhood growing up. She reportedly did not remarry and devoted her time to raising the Dudley brothers.
On the other hand, while it is mentioned that Jared Dudley’s dad is Anthony Dudley, it is unclear if the father-son duo has any relationship.
What Was Jared Dudley’s School And College Career Like?
Talking about his educational background, Jared Dudley attended the Horizon Christian Academy in San Diego. He was a stellar student there and also led the school’s basketball team to earn two state titles in 2002 and 2003. Following his high school graduation, Dudley enrolled at Boston College in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.
Jared played for the Boston College Eagles from 2003 to 2007 and earned the nickname Junkyard Dog for his nose for the ball and his toughness. Moreover, after his senior season, he was voted the ACC Player of the Year for 2007. Dudley was a second team All-American that year.
When Did Jared Dudley Start His Professional Basketball Journey?
After a successful high school and college career, Jared Dudley entered the NBA draft in 2007 and was selected by Charlotte Bobcats as the 22nd overall pick. He played 20 games in a season and a half with the Bobcats before being traded to the Phoenix Suns in December 2008.
Jared spent much of his NBA career with the Suns and was one of the key players for the team. Between 2008 and 2013, Dudley managed to reach the NBA playoffs once with the team and did well. And despite not winning the NBA championship with the Suns, his journalist-style video interviews with his teammates helped him become a fan favorite.
The San Diego native was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in July 2013 in a three-team deal. However, he only stayed with the Clippers till January 2014 before being traded to Milwaukee Bucks. Once again Jared only spent a few months with the Bucks and joined the Washington Wizards. He played for the Wizards as power forward during the 2016-2016 season before returning to the Phoenix Suns in July 2016.
For his second stint with the Suns, Dudley played as power forward in the start of the 2016-17 season. While his performance was improving with each game, Jared had to undergo a left toe ligament and bone procedure which ruled him out for a few months. He then left Phoenix Suns for Brooklyn Nets in 2018 before finally signing a one-year contract worth $2.6 million with Los Angeles Lakers in July 2019.
In his first season with the Lakers, Jared Dudley won his only NBA championship. He re-signed with the team on another $2.6 million for 1-year contract. Sadly, he suffered a contusion and torn MCL in his right knee in March 2021 but chose to not undergo surgery. Moreover, in August 2021, he announced his retirement from the NBA after 14 amazing seasons.
Soon after the California native joined the coaching staff of the NBA team Dallas Mavericks. He serves as an assistant coach for the team under head coach, Jason Kidd. Moreover, thanks to his successful career as an NBA player and now coach, Jared Dudley’s net worth is estimated to be $25 million.
Who Is Jared Dudley Married To?
Much like the success in his professional journey, the former NBA player has also found happiness in his personal life. He is happily married and has two children with his partner. Jared Dudley’s wife is Christina Dudley but the pair have been quiet regarding their life together.
Furthermore, Jared and Christina seem to have welcomed two kids together. According to Google Search, Dudley’s children are Justus Dudley and Jaylin Dudley. The young Dudleys can be seen on their father’s Instagram time and again. But we hope to know more about the family in the coming days.