
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 28, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Saddiq Bey (41) reacts after scoring the game winning basket on a rebound against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Jan 28, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Saddiq Bey (41) reacts after scoring the game winning basket on a rebound against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Saddiq Bey’s personal life paints a picture of humility and strong family ties. His personal life revolves around his faith, family, and the values instilled in him from a young age. His grounded nature keeps him focused in all aspects. So, with that, let’s look into who his family are.
Where is Saddiq Bey from? What’s the Wizards star’s nationality?
Saddiq Bey was born on April 9, 1999, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Which makes his nationality American. However, details about his ethnicity remain undisclosed, as no public records clarify his background. With his background established, let’s now delve into his family dynamics. His journey through basketball, though, has always been shaped by determination and family influence.
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Growing up in Charlotte, the hooper was immersed in a sports environment from an early age. His mother, Dr. Drewana Bey, was a standout basketball player herself. She played for the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, known for her leadership and rebounding skills. She was a 6-foot forward, whose basketball prowess left a lasting mark on Saddiq’s game. “I was very critical. Saddiq couldn’t play defense,” Drewana said, emphasizing how much she pushed him early on.
Despite the challenges, he learned from his mother’s no-nonsense approach. “I was on him pretty hard,” she once recalled, “He wasn’t quick, and anybody could get past him.” But this tough coaching didn’t discourage him; it only fueled his desire to improve. In fact, he calls her, his biggest motivator. His mother’s words always stuck with him, and he took them as lessons, not criticism.
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However, growing up, the Wizards star wasn’t alone, as he has a brother named, Tyler Bey, who also pursued a basketball career. Tyler’s journey took him to the NBA G League, further strengthening the basketball culture within the Bey family. But, now he plays from Hapoel Haifa in the Israeli Basketball Premier League. Their shared love for the game created a tight bond between them, with both brothers supporting each other’s growth. However, Saddiq’s father remains a mystery, but it’s clear that Drewana played a central role in his upbringing and success.
In high school, Saddiq faced some adversity. He attended DeMatha High School, where he struggled initially to make the varsity team. His mother’s expectations were clear: he had to earn everything. “He became a person very quickly who wanted to do it on his own,” she said. She taught him to advocate for himself and not rely on others for success. He transferred to Sidwell Friends School to focus more on academics, a move that helped him excel both academically and athletically.
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Did Saddiq Bey's mother's tough love make him the NBA star he is today?
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At Sidwell Friends, his basketball talent started to shine. College recruitment followed soon after, with schools like Towson University expressing interest. “I didn’t see Division I or NBA potential at the time,” she admitted. But as Saddiq’s skills developed, so did the recognition. Scholarships from top schools like Connecticut, Florida, and Notre Dame began pouring in. Saddiq’s commitment to his craft turned his mother’s doubts into pride.
Despite his growing basketball fame, Drewana remained cautious. “I wasn’t convinced he was ready for the NBA,” she says, recalling her skepticism when the idea of him turning pro started gaining traction. Saddiq, however, was unwavering in his belief. “I always knew I had the ability,” he says.
With the guidance of his mother, he stayed focused on his goals, even as others doubted him. “She always made sure I looked at both sides,” Saddiq recalls reflecting on how his mother’s perspective kept him grounded.
The hoopster’s decision to enter the 2020 NBA Draft came after much thought. The pandemic gave him extra time to evaluate his future, but Drewana continued to challenge his choices. “I always made sure he looked at both sides,” she says. She understood the importance of weighing the risks. Despite her reservations, Drewana supported his decision when her son leaned towards going pro. “At the end of the day, she supports anything I wanted to do,” he said. This is how he showed his gratitude for his mother’s unwavering support.
On draft night, the hooper was selected 19th overall by the Detroit Pistons. It was a surprise to the family, but a proud moment. He had worked hard to prove everyone wrong, and his success was a testament to his resilience. “I get really nervous. I don’t even watch the games, I record them.” Drewana admitted. It’s a mother’s instinct to protect her child from disappointment, even when he’s thriving. Saddiq, on the other hand, credits his success to his mother’s tough love.
As Saddiq’s career unfolds, Drewana remains his biggest supporter. “I’ve always been his motivator, and I’m so proud,” she says. Saddiq’s journey from a kid doubted by his own mother to an NBA star shows the power of family. Well, now that’s a lot about his family, so let’s get into the next question: his religion.
Is Saddiq Bey religious?
Saddiq Bey’s religious beliefs are central to his life, though details remain private. He has frequently mentioned his faith in God, especially during challenging moments in his career. Reflecting on his struggles during the season, he shared that his faith has kept him grounded. “I’m a big believer in God and faith,” he said, acknowledging the difficult moments he’s faced. Injuries and being benched were new experiences, but faith helped him persevere.
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Through these challenges, Saddiq leans heavily on his belief system. “I just have to control what I can,” he explained, emphasizing his work ethic. For him, how hard he plays and prays is non-negotiable. His commitment to his faith shows through his consistent messages on social media. In one Instagram post, he wrote, “It’s a blessing to play this game that I love! Forever thankful and all praise to God!” This shows how deeply he integrates gratitude and faith into his basketball journey.
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Another example of his faith-driven posts came after his move to Atlanta. “Atlanta! I’m excited and blessed to be here! Let’s keep pushing! #allpraisetoHim” he shared, demonstrating both excitement and a sense of divine purpose in his career. While his specific religion remains unclear, his strong belief in God is evident in how he approaches life and basketball.
Despite his success on the court, Saddiq Bey continues to maintain a humble outlook, attributing much of his drive to his religious beliefs. His faith keeps him motivated, focused, and resilient in the face of adversity.
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Did Saddiq Bey's mother's tough love make him the NBA star he is today?