Draymond Green has always been the emotional heartbeat of the Golden State Warriors - a fiery leader, defensive anchor, and vocal presence who wears his passion on his sleeve. But as the Warriors embark on another road trip, Green is balancing more than just defensive rotations and locker room leadership. He’s also preparing for the arrival of his fifth child with wife Hazel Renee.
After Golden State’s 124-112 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night at Chase Center, Green was candid about the bittersweet reality of leaving home at such a pivotal moment.
“It sucks… pretty s----y to be honest,” Green admitted when asked about heading out on the road while his wife is nearing labor. “But nonetheless, this is my job, and I love to do my job.”
That’s classic Draymond - no sugarcoating, just honesty. And while the Warriors didn’t come away with the win, fans still got a heartwarming moment when Green’s son, Draymond Jr., stood courtside, towel in hand, ready to assist his dad during a timeout. It was a small gesture, but one that spoke volumes about the bond between father and son.
Green opened up further about how he’s been managing the chaos of NBA life alongside the demands of fatherhood.
“I haven't seen my family much over the last month, really, so we try to cherish the moments we do get,” he said. “But yeah, it's fun - they keep me on my toes.
That’s why they were here, and it's just so much going on. I was happy that he was here.”
The moment was a reminder that for all the intensity Green brings on the court, off it, he’s a family man trying to make it all work - just like anyone else juggling the demands of a career and parenthood.
Hazel Renee, an actress and recording artist, first shared the couple’s baby news back in early September. And while this isn’t Green’s first time navigating the challenges of being away from home during a major family milestone, it doesn’t make it any easier.
“It’s terrible, to be honest,” Green said. “It’s not the first time I’ve been in this position, though.
But my wife does a great job; she’s strong. I’ll do all I can and get back here if I need to.
It’s been tough, just with our schedules.”
That kind of support system - the kind that can weather the grind of an 82-game season, the travel, and the missed moments - is invaluable. And for a player like Green, who’s now in his 14th season with the Warriors, having that foundation at home is part of what’s kept him going at such a high level for so long.
As he prepares to welcome his fifth child, Green’s focus remains split between two worlds: the hardwood, where he’s chasing another title, and home, where a new chapter is about to begin. And knowing Draymond, he’ll bring the same intensity, commitment, and heart to both.