Draymond Green is opening up about the challenge of juggling the NBA season with a growing family at home.
Following the Warriors’ loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday, the veteran forward spoke candidly about the emotional toll of heading out on a long road stretch while his wife, Hazel Renee, prepares to give birth to their third child.
“Pretty s—ty, if I’m honest,” the NBA star said when asked about leaving home. “But, nonetheless, this is my job. And I love to do my job. But it’s terrible, if I’m honest.”
Hazel announced her pregnancy in September, and although the couple hasn’t shared an official due date, Draymond’s comments make it clear that the baby could arrive any day. The timing hasn’t made life easy for the four-time NBA champion, especially with Golden State scheduled to spend five of their next six games on the road.
“It’s been tough. We’ve been gone so much. I haven’t seen my family much over the last month, really,” he admitted.
Draymond and Hazel share daughters Cash, 5, and Hunni, who turns two this week. He’s also dad to Draymond Jr., 8, with ex-girlfriend Jelissa Hardy, while Renee is mom to Olive, 11, from a previous relationship.
Despite the chaos, Draymond still found a small silver lining during the Thunder game. His son Draymond Jr. joined him on the team bench.
The forward lit up while describing the moment in his interview, especially after introducing his son to Thunder star Chet Holmgren.
“Anytime you can give them those experiences that quite honestly money can’t buy, I’m always forever grateful,” he said.
The Warriors now head to Philadelphia for Thursday’s matchup against the Sixers, followed by games in Cleveland and Chicago. Between now and Dec. 20, the team will play only once at home.
