Monique James is Gary Payton’s Ex-wife. Monique’s life is a portrait of determination, creativity, and love.
From raising three exceptional children, including NBA star Gary Payton II, to carving her own path in art, philanthropy, and media, Monique’s journey is one of purpose and power — a reminder that strength and elegance can coexist beautifully.
Athletic Roots: Where It All Began
Long before becoming known as Gary Payton’s wife, Monique Payton (née James) was already a star athlete herself.
She attended Skyline High School in Oakland, California, where she dominated multiple sports — basketball, track and field, long jump, and high jump.
Her athletic talent earned her a place at Merritt College, where she became one of the most celebrated guards in the program’s history, boasting an incredible 30-inch vertical leap.
Her passion for sports didn’t end there. Monique’s discipline and athletic drive became the foundation of her parenting philosophy.
She encouraged her children to embrace competition and commitment, even having them sign contracts to finish their sports seasons.
Her son, Gary Payton II, often credits his mother’s athleticism and mental toughness as the key to his success, once admitting, “It’s got to be Monique — she was the most athletic in her class.”
Life With Gary Payton Sr.: Love, Fame, And Challenges
Monique met Gary Payton Sr. back in high school, and their relationship blossomed into a long-term partnership that led to marriage in 1997.
At the time, Gary was already a household name — a fiery competitor and defensive genius known as “The Glove.” Being married to an NBA superstar came with both privilege and pressure.
While Gary traveled the country with teams like the Seattle SuperSonics, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat, Monique held down the fort at home — raising their children, managing family life, and navigating the constant demands of fame.
The couple eventually divorced in 2012, following years of personal challenges and reports of infidelity.
Despite the split, Monique remained steadfast in her dedication to her children, balancing motherhood with grace and independence.
Gary himself has publicly acknowledged her vital role in raising their kids while his NBA career kept him away from home.
Raising Three Remarkable Children
Monique and Gary Payton share three children: Raquel (32), Gary Payton II (27), and Julian “JuJu” Payton (22). Each of them has charted their own path, embodying the strength and values their mother instilled.
Monique’s parenting philosophy centers on love, accountability, and open communication. She admits that her journey as a mother wasn’t always easy, saying, “I learned to be a good mother, but it wasn’t easy.
Sometimes, in a relationship, you transfer anger toward people who don’t deserve it. Once I realized that, I made a vow never to curse or speak down to my kids.”
Her goal was always to build a nurturing relationship grounded in respect and honesty — one where her children could speak freely and be heard.
And it worked. Today, all three of her children are thriving adults, bonded by love and mutual admiration for their mother.
Gary Payton II: A Mother’s Greatest Pride
Among Monique’s greatest joys is watching her son, Gary Payton II, follow in his father’s footsteps to become an NBA star.
Known for his defensive prowess and athleticism, Gary II currently plays for the Golden State Warriors and is one-half of the fifth father-son duo to win an NBA championship.
Behind his rise stands Monique — his first coach, motivator, and emotional anchor. She guided him not just through drills and strategy but through mindset and discipline.
She recalls telling him, “Break the game into quarters — set goals for points, assists, rebounds per quarter.” Gary listened, applied her wisdom, and thrived.
Her commitment to his growth wasn’t just on the court. When teachers expressed concern about Gary’s learning challenges in grade school, Monique took proactive steps to ensure he received the right support — proving her love went far beyond sports.
Even now, as an adult, Gary II remains close to his mom. “At 28, I don’t ask him too many questions. I let him come to me,” Monique says warmly.
A Woman Of Many Talents: From Motherhood To Artistry
After decades of focusing on motherhood, Monique rediscovered herself through art. She recalls a moment of emotional overwhelm that led her to painting: “I just said one day, ‘I’m going to paint,’ and I’ve been doing it ever since.”
Today, she’s an established fluid artist whose work is showcased under the brand Mo’s Arts (@mos_arts3). Her creations are vibrant, emotive, and deeply personal — a reflection of her journey through love, motherhood, and self-discovery.
The Outta Pocket Show: Monique’s Bold Voice
Never one to stay quiet, Monique has also stepped into the world of podcasting. Her show, “The Outta Pocket Show,” is a lively, no-filter conversation about relationships, empowerment, culture, and life’s raw truths.
Co-hosted with her close friends, the podcast captures Monique’s signature energy — outspoken, funny, and fearless.
You can catch her show on Instagram (@outtapocketshow) and Twitter (@outtapocketshow), where she connects with fans and shares her vibrant outlook on life.
Philanthropy And Purpose
Beyond art and entertainment, Monique devotes time to philanthropy. She serves as the Executive Director and Chair of the Gary Payton II Foundation, which focuses on supporting educational opportunities and equitable access for underserved youth.
Monique also co-founded the non-profit “Woman Standing Tall” with her friend Virginia Patu-Bathea, championing women who have overcome adversity.
She has raised over $70,000 for AIDS research and awareness in honor of her late cousin, Shawn Guidry, who passed away from HIV/AIDS.
Additionally, Monique helped produce “Food for the Soul”, a cookbook featuring favorite dishes from NBA players and their mothers, with proceeds directed toward charitable causes.
Living Authentically And With Grace
When asked what grace means to her, Monique responds simply: “Grace is elegance, favor, and blessing.”
She describes herself as transparent, tomboyish, and unapologetically real — someone who finds beauty in laughter, movement, and creativity.
Her style reflects her confidence: she loves monochromatic looks, especially in cream, and gravitates toward timeless fashion from Nike, Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, and Akris. Her favorite scent? Jo Malone’s Blackberry & Bay — a perfect match for her effortless elegance.
As for her secret to youth and joy? “Laughing! It keeps you young,” she says. “That, and lots of water, dancing, prayer, and yoga.”
A Mother, Creator, And Force Of Nature
At her core, Monique Payton is more than a former NBA wife — she’s a mother, artist, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and truth-teller. Her story is not about fame, but about resilience.
Through the highs and lows of marriage, the challenges of single motherhood, and the rebirth of her own passions, she continues to radiate strength and authenticity.
As she says on her podcast: “You must become the magnet for whatever you want.” And Monique Payton, without a doubt, is magnetic — a woman who attracts love, purpose, and light wherever she goes.
FAQ
Is Monique Payton Married Now?
As of 2025, Monique Payton has not remarried. She has focused on her personal growth, family, and creative ventures since her divorce from Gary Payton in 2012.
What Is The Outta Pocket Show About?
The Outta Pocket Show is a podcast hosted by Monique Payton and friends, featuring candid discussions on relationships, culture, empowerment, and real-life challenges.
What Kind Of Art Does Monique Payton Create?
Monique is a fluid artist, known for vibrant, expressive abstract pieces that reflect emotion, spirituality, and her personal evolution. Her work is showcased on Instagram via @mos_arts3.
How Did Monique Payton Influence Her Son Gary Payton II?
Monique played a pivotal role in Gary Payton II’s athletic and personal development. Her background as a college basketball player and her disciplined parenting shaped his work ethic and success in the NBA.
What Philanthropic Work Is Monique Payton Involved In?
Monique co-founded Woman Standing Tall, a non-profit supporting women who’ve overcome adversity. She’s also raised over $70,000 for AIDS research and continues to work with her son’s foundation.
Where Can Fans Listen To Monique Payton’s Podcast?
Fans can stream The Outta Pocket Show on Instagram (@outtapocketshow) and Twitter, where Monique shares insights, humor, and inspiration drawn from her own life experiences.
What Inspires Monique Payton’s Art And Lifestyle?
Her art and philosophy are inspired by self-love, faith, motherhood, and authenticity. She believes in living transparently and finding beauty in laughter, creativity, and grace.