“…Need to thank my family and Leah, who have always been my biggest supporters.” Nick Richards’ journey till today wasn’t smooth, but as and when he rocked the court, we know who had his back all the time. A former Kentucky standout, who later secured a $15M contract extension with Charlotte before being traded to Phoenix Suns in 2025, has more than just basketball to keep fans curious about him. And it is his partner now. While a lot of NBA players keep their relationships under wraps, Richards and his girlfriend choose not to shy away from the attention. But who is she, and how did their story begin?

Their story is straight out of a sports romance movie. From being college sweethearts at the University of Kentucky to thriving professional athletes, the power couple has come a long way together. What makes everyone even more excited is both of them are athletes! The lady is carving out her legacy in volleyball, whereas Richards is making his mark in the NBA. But there’s more to know about her.

Who is Nick Richards’ Girlfriend?

Nick Richards’ lady luck, Leah Edmond, is a star in her own right. Born on February 13, 1998, Edmond is a professional volleyball player, who currently dominates as an outside hitter for the Atlanta Vibe in the Pro Volleyball Federation. And it is not just you who might get fascinated by her skills, but who knows, Richards too fell for this athletic similarity?

But wait, she has been ruling the hardwood since her days at the University of Kentucky, even before coming to pro. She has been an absolute force since then. Rewrote the record books, finishing as the Wildcats’ all-time leader in kills and attack attempts, earned four First-Team All-SEC honors, and in 2019, she was named SEC Player of the Year. Oh, you name it and she has it!

Since then, she’s kept the momentum going. Edmond has played in Athletes Unlimited Volleyball and now shines in the Pro Volleyball Federation. She was the Player of the Week in February 2025. Her game is as strong as ever and she has the recognition to prove why she’s one of the best in the business.

But it’s not just her on-court dominance that makes her special. Edmond is also vocal about growing professional women’s volleyball in the U.S. She’s passionate about building the sport and inspiring young athletes. She pushes for better opportunities for women in volleyball.

Despite the obstacles in her professional life, Edmond consistently stands by Richards. From the Suns’ games to any other major NBA accomplishments, or even in his lows, you will always find Leah backing him up. And it is not just cheering each other, but motivating as and when needed. Leah once said, “I think there was a sense of regret and humbleness to where if he was working that hard, there’s no reason I can’t do that too. So he has pushed me to open up my eyes and look to hard work more than just my given talent. He made me a better player just because I started trying to work as hard as he has for the last two years.”

The relationship between these two athletes demonstrates how professional ambitions do not have to prevent partners from supporting each other through their respective goals. But how did they come this long?

How did Nick Richards and Leah Edmond meet?

Nick Richards and Leah Edmond have maintained a long-standing relationship since they were students at the University of Kentucky. They crossed each other’s paths during their time as student-athletes at the University of Kentucky. Richards played basketball, and Leah led all competitors during volleyball matches, and their bond has grown naturally since then. This is probably the only relationship that we know about Nick. Though there’s no specific word if he has been in a past relationship. But why does that even matter when the duo is sticking with each other, through thick and thin?

Time passed and their college athletic relationship turned into a deep romantic bond. They made their relationship public while attending school together. While focused on their career, they didn’t let their dedication to the sport separate their commitment to maintaining their relationship healthy. That is what people do in love, grow, and grow together. 

Being in a relationship while juggling pro sports careers isn’t easy. But then these two make it work. They understand each other’s schedules, pressures, and sacrifices. Their relationship is not just about romance, it’s about respect and balance. And as they push for greatness in their respective sports, one thing is clear: this sports power couple isn’t going anywhere.