Sports, challenges, and love were the three things that surrounded Jaxson Hayes’ childhood. He grew up around sports where challenges both on the court and off the court were tough but family stood as his backbone. So today let’s explore his family and look at what makes them special to him, that even after so much frame is he still the family boy.

Where is Jaxson Hayes from? What is the Lakers star’s nationality?

Jaxson Hayes was born on May 23, 2000, in Norman, Oklahoma. Which makes his nationality American. Meanwhile, information about his ethnicity is not known, so it’s safe not to assume. But, now let’s get to know his about his family. Hayes’ story is much more than just basketball; it’s a tale of family, resilience, and overcoming challenges. However, did you know he comes from a family full of athletes? The hooper inherited his passion for sports from both parents.

Beginning with his mother, Kristi Hayes, was a standout basketball player at Drake University. In the 1990s, she dominated the game, earning accolades like MVC Player of the Year. Her career began in Jefferson, Iowa, where she scored over a huge 3,400 points in high school, and averaged a jaw-dropping 50 points per game her senior year. But Kristi’s journey wasn’t without challenges.

At 22, when she was dreaming of having a beautiful life she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. This diagnosis threatened her life. She had one ovary removed and underwent chemotherapy, facing an uncertain future. During this period she even wondered if she could ever be a mother. “There was a time when I didn’t know if I was even going to be able to have children,” she once later recalled. Yet, despite these fears, she fully recovered and today she went on to have four children, daughter Jillian, sons Jaxson, Jewett, and Jonah all with her husband Jonathan.

On the other hand, Jonathan Hayes, his father, also had a distinguished career in sports. A former tight end in the NFL, Jon played for 12 seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers. After retiring, he shifted gears and took on coaching roles. It included a long tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals. His success as a coach is just as impressive as his playing days, eventually leading the St. Louis BattleHawks as head coach in the XFL. Jon’s work ethic, leadership, and ability to adapt were qualities he passed down to his children, including Jaxson.

Jaxson Hayes grew up with these two powerhouse figures as his role models, and it’s clear he took inspiration from both. His father’s physicality and athleticism are evident in Jaxson’s 6’9” frame, while his mother’s basketball skills shaped his game. Kristi, in particular, didn’t just cheer from the sidelines; she was hands-on in Jaxson’s development. Did you know about her famous playing move? From an early age, she taught him the “Kinne Cross,” a move she made famous in her playing days. The hooper’s game blossomed under her guidance, and even now, he honors his mother’s legacy by using that same move on the court.

Despite the frame, he has always maintained his connection with the family well. On social media, he frequently posts birthday wishes and heartfelt messages to his parents and siblings. He’s a proud family man who values the support and love that has shaped him.

After he was drafted into the NBA, he whispered “I love you, Mom” as he embraced Kristi. It was a moment that showed the depth of their bond, that went through years of hard work, sacrifice, and love. However, when talking about his religion, it’s not clear if he is religious or not as he never said anything out in public.

However, the Hayes family’s story is one of resilience and strength, not only in sports but also in life. And with that, let’s look at what his college career looked like.

Which college did Jaxson Hayes attend? How good was he in college?

After Jaxson Hayes’ high school success, he attended the University of Texas for his lone college season. During his freshman year, he was just impressive, earning a starting role. He averaged 10.0 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, showing his natural talent.

What stood out most was Hayes’ efficiency. He shot 72.8% from the field, which is a remarkable stat for any player. His high percentage highlighted his ability to finish around the rim with ease, using his length and athleticism to dominate. Did you know about his top game?

One of his most remarkable games was against TCU, where Hayes scored a career-high 19 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals, and 1 block. Well, a dark cloud came over his journey. During the Big 12 Tournament, his left knee was injured in a loss to Kansas. It was a big loss, but despite the injury, his impact was undeniable. So, the question is: how will such a big performer not catch the eyes of a top NBA prospect?

Hayes declared for the NBA Draft in April 2019. And as expected he was drafted as the 8th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks and today his time with the Los Angeles Lakers allowed him to showcase his incredible athleticism and growing basketball IQ.