Naji Marshall’s rise to the NBA wasn’t just about basketball—it was about values. Since childhood, he witnessed his parents’ hard work, which laid the foundation for everything he would later accomplish. The sacrifices have driven him to turn into the individual we know and the hoopster he went on to become. So with that said, it’s time that we get to know about his family.

Where is Naji Marshall from? Exploring the roots and nationality of the Dallas Mavericks’ star

Naji Marshall was born on January 24, 1998, in Atlantic City, New Jersey. That makes his nationality American. However, we aren’t aware of his ethnicity, so it would be wise not to assume anything. Now, going back to our beloved hoopster’s life story, it didn’t just stagnate in the place where he first opened his eyes. At 9, his family moved to Maryland, a shift defining much of his hoops journey.

Growing up in two distinct areas, Naji was shaped by two different basketball cultures. He says, “I grew up in both areas and both areas had high-level basketball. Between New Jersey and Maryland, I was able to have the best of those two states. I feel like growing up with the youth and grassroots basketball there and to be able to experience both of those areas was unbelievable. It’s made me the player that I am today.” Moreover, the hoopster attended Takoma Academy before transferring to Eleanor Roosevelt High School to play for coach Brendan O’Connell. This was a turning point in his basketball development.

Naji Marshall’s family played a huge part in his upbringing. His father, Maurice Marshall, was a professional boxer- a man who knew the grind and discipline required to succeed. But after his brief career as a boxer, he worked as a basketball coach at an elementary school. Meanwhile, his mother Rayna Whitted, worked at Providence Hospital in Washington, D.C.

From them, Naji learned early that hard work, no matter the field, was a non-negotiable. He once recalled, “To be good at both of those professions, you have to put in a lot of hours. I just saw them get up early in the morning to go to work and have two or three jobs throughout their whole life and work as hard as they possibly could to have the best life; all of that came through with me on the basketball court. I just put everything I can into basketball. I’m trying to be the best that I can.”

Basketball wasn’t just something Naji played; it became his way of life. The lessons from his parents—resilience, discipline, and dedication—fueled him on the court. Apart from his parents, he’s surrounded by his six siblings- Maurice, Martia, Craig, Tai, Ausin, and Myles. Nothing much is known about Marshall’s siblings, but we do know what Naji likes to do apart from basketball.

While basketball consumes much of his time, he’s also found ways to unwind. In interviews, he’s mentioned how he liked to chill, especially during quarantine. You’d often find him hitting the gym or lifting weights, but when he wasn’t doing that, he was watching YouTube, listening to music, or just giving everything he does a break.

However, the hoopster’s journey from Atlantic City to Maryland, from high school to college and now in the NBA, wasn’t just about basketball—it’s also about strongly giving back to his family. He has clearly excelled on the hardwood. Coming from a hardworking family, he took inspiration from his father’s work ethic and his mother’s dedication to helping others, which shaped his character.

Now, as a key player for the Dallas Mavericks, Naji Marshall continues to build on his foundation. With the support of his parents, he’s determined to be the best version of himself—both as a player and a person. Speaking of which, what about his faith in God? Here’s how he embraces it on and off the court.

What religion does Naji Marshall follow? Is he a Muslim?

Naji Marshall has always been open about his faith. He explained, “I’m a Christian. It means strong warrior or survivor. My dad’s real name is Maurice, but his Muslim nickname is Naji.” It’s a reflection of the blend of cultures and beliefs that shaped him. His Instagram and X bios also say, “God First,” making it clear where his priorities lie.

In an interview, he reflected on his NBA journey, attributing his success to divine guidance. “I’m blessed to be here. All glory to God. Just to be able to get in an NBA game, and just get a chance, is everything to me.”

For the Dallas star, just getting the chance to play in the biggest hoops league in the world was a monumental achievement. It was a gift, to his prayers. Marshall’s spiritual journey seems tied to the work ethic and core values his parents instilled in him. Their sacrifices drove him to be more than just an athlete—they inspired him to give his best in every moment.