Draya Michele is no stranger to the spotlight, but 2025 has catapulted her into a new stratosphere of fame—and controversy. From viral tattoos to business triumphs and a headline-grabbing romance with NBA star Jalen Green, Draya’s name is everywhere. Here’s how the reality TV alum turned entrepreneur is rewriting the rules of celebrity, love, and influence.
Viral Tattoo Ignites Social Media Storm
It all started when Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green, just 23, unveiled a massive tattoo of Draya Michele’s face across his back. The internet exploded. Some fans swooned over the “romantic” gesture, while others slammed it as “reckless,” predicting Green would regret the ink as soon as the honeymoon phase faded. The couple’s 17-year age gap—Draya is now 40—only fueled the debate, but neither seems fazed by the noise.
Draya, ever the straight-shooter, told TMZ,
“I don’t know what people’s problem is. Two adults being in love, I don’t know why that would rub people the wrong way. It’s kind of weird. Love is love at the end of the day.”From Reality TV to Business Mogul
Draya first burst onto the scene in 2011 as a breakout star on VH1’s
Basketball Wives LA. But she quickly proved she was more than just a reality TV personality. Her luxury swimwear brand, Mint Swim, became a multimillion-dollar success, and she’s since launched new ventures like the clothing line Beige and Coco. Draya’s business savvy has made her a fixture in both fashion and pop culture.
She’s also a mom of three, welcoming a baby girl with Green in May 2024, and balancing motherhood with her relentless hustle.
Standing Strong Amid Scrutiny
The age gap between Draya and Jalen Green has been a lightning rod for criticism, especially on social media. NBA star Draymond Green recently spoke out in their defense, calling out the public for crossing the line. On the
Pivot Podcast, he said,
“Everybody talking about him and his woman. That ain’t none of y’all business. Get out that man’s business. I’m publicly defending him like, ‘Y’all stop.’ That’s wack to me. I don’t rock with that.”Despite the scrutiny, Draya has become a constant presence courtside at Green’s games, supporting him through major career moves—including his recent trade from the Houston Rockets to the Phoenix Suns.
Pop Culture Power Moves
Draya’s influence extends far beyond her relationship. In 2025, she became the face of Jeep’s “WAGS in Wags” campaign, cementing her status as one of the most influential “WAGs” (wives and girlfriends of athletes) in sports pop culture. She’s also made waves with her candid social media presence and her support for other women in the industry.
Recently, Draya made headlines for her supportive comment on Kayla Nicole’s viral Halloween performance, simply writing, “So good,” and showing solidarity with fellow women navigating the spotlight.
What’s Next for Draya Michele?
With her business empire growing, a new baby, and a relationship that refuses to be defined by public opinion, Draya Michele is proving she’s unstoppable. Whether you love her or love to debate her, one thing is clear: Draya is setting her own rules—and the world is watching.
Takeaway: Draya Michele’s story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and unapologetic self-love. As she continues to break barriers in business, fashion, and pop culture, expect her influence to only grow louder.
Sources
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