Jalen Green, the 24-year-old NBA star, and his partner Draya Michele, a 41-year-old celebrity, have joyfully returned home after embarking on an enriching family journey across Asia.
This dynamic duo recently made a stop in Guangzhou, China, marking a pivotal leg of Green’s East Asia tour, which skillfully blended promotional duties with cultural immersion. Accompanying them were Draya’s children—sons Kniko and Jru, and daughter Lyght—making the trip a full family affair across these vibrant lands.
Green’s time in China was not just about leisure; he also handled some on-court business. The basketball prodigy faced Chen Zewen, a renowned Chinese streetball player, in a gripping 100-point one-on-one showdown. Green triumphed with a decisive 100-51 win at the renowned Nansha Gymnasium, showcasing his competitive spirit and skill.
After his impressive performance on the basketball stage, Green and his family indulged in the area’s rich cultural tapestries. They wandered through local attractions, enjoying the unique sights and savoring the diverse flavors that the region had to offer. Their adventurous palates led them to sample exotic dishes, including the daring delicacy of chicken feet.
Continuing their voyage, the family journeyed to Thailand, where their exploratory spirit persisted. They relished the country’s culinary delights, marveled at the picturesque landscapes, and spent tranquil moments by the water, savoring every bit of their Southeast Asian escapade.
Draya, who recently revealed that she had enrolled in culinary school, put her interest in food to good use by taking a cooking class while there. She later described it as a “10/10 experience.”
Having all three of her children along was another highlight for Draya. While sharing a video from Koh Yao Yai, she summed up how she felt about her kids.
“3 of the best things to ever happen to me,” she wrote.
Draya’s eldest son, Kniko, was born in 2002, while she welcomed Jru in 2016 with former NFL player Orlando Scandrick. Kniko attended Georgia State University, a milestone Draya proudly shared when he headed off to college.
Lyght, Draya’s youngest child and only daughter, is the first child she shares with Green. She was born on May 12, 2024, which fell on Mother’s Day that year.
The date held special meaning for Draya, whose father died on Mother’s Day in 2021. After Lyght’s arrival, she shared that the birth had given her family new memories to associate with a day that had previously been difficult for her.
@itsdrayamichele Koh Yao Yai 2026 …. 3 of the best things to ever happen to me ❤️
♬ original sound – NDONGA PRO🖤🌹
Becoming a girl mom was also something Draya had wanted for years after raising two sons.
“I’ve always wanted a daughter and I really lost hope about it,” she previously told ESSENCE.
She added that having Lyght turned out to be “everything I imagined and more.”
Now two years old, Lyght has already enjoyed her share of adventures with her parents. This time around, her big brothers were there to experience the sights, food and fun alongside her.