Who Are Zach Edey’s Parents Julia & Glen Edey? All About the 2025 NBA Rising Star’s Family Background & Roots

Zach Edey’s story starts with a boy towering over his peers, yet humble. Raised in Toronto, he never imagined his height would lead to greatness. But guess who was behind him? His family! Yes, from local games to dreams of NBA basketball, his path was shaped by more than just basketball, and his family never left him.

He’s a product of family values, hard work, and constant self-belief. So with that, let’s explore more about his family and their story.

Who are Zach Edey’s parents? Are they Canadians?

Zach Edey was born to parents Glen and Julia Edey, and yes, they both share Canadian nationality, though their ethnic backgrounds are distinct. Here’s how. His mother, Julia, was born and raised in Toronto, and she is of Chinese descent. Rather, she is a first-generation Chinese Canadian. His father, Glen Edey, is of Caucasian descent and was also raised in Canada.

Talking about their childhood, Julia’s family owned a restaurant, and she comes from a working-class household. She once recalled how she began helping her family’s business at the age of 12. Other than this, she was athletic. Yes, she played baseball and track—she wasn’t initially focused on basketball. But, until high school, she tried her hand at basketball, starting a late journey into a sport she never fully understood.

Her parents, while supportive, did not view basketball as a serious endeavor. They simply considered it a recreational activity. However, she was the same as their parents when it came to her child. She understood the value of pushing beyond the boundaries of traditional expectations and worked hard to ensure her son would have the resources and knowledge to pursue his dreams. Julia’s emphasis on understanding the system helped Zach navigate his own basketball journey with clarity. Cherry on the cake? His father, Glen, was also athletic.

He played baseball! Growing up, he played baseball and developed a strong work ethic early in life. In his early years, he worked in gas stations to earn money. However, when it came to his kids, Glen didn’t push Zach into basketball in the start, but after seeing his son’s dedication, he just couldn’t stop himself from supporting his son’s dream.

But Zach took time away from basketball in his early years, joining his father’s sport – baseball. Glen and Julia both understood Zach’s need for space to grow and discover what sport truly motivated him. His entry into basketball came later.

As a young child, he wasn’t interested in the sport, feeling it was merely a stereotype for tall players. However, when he did eventually begin to play basketball, the Edeys provided nothing short of absolute support. They guided him through challenges, ensuring he knew how to excel in the game while also stressing the importance of remaining humble.

Zach’s development as a player involved a combination of both parental influences. While Julia was there to teach him about the complexities of the game, Glen offered insight into the importance of a strong work ethic and persistence. But this didn’t come without sacrifices on the Edey family’s part..

What has Julia Edey sacrificed to support Zach Edey’s journey?

Julia Edey’s life has always been defined by dedication, hard work, and sacrifice. When her son received a Division I basketball scholarship, she retired from her career as a mechanical engineer. She had worked for over 30 years in the nuclear sector and spent some years as a nuclear theory teacher. For Julia, it was a moment of personal pride, knowing that her son’s success allowed her to step back from work. “If I get a D1 scholarship, financially, I could retire,” Zach recalled in an interview. It was a deal they had made, and he fulfilled it.

Julia once spent part of the basketball season in Indiana with Zach, staying in Airbnbs. The Boilermakers’ community quickly embraced her, and she became a fan favorite. She often attends games and has become an enthusiastic supporter of the team. “I have a clapping callus. I’m probably a little intense,” she admitted in an interview. Her presence at Purdue games has made her a local celebrity, often spotted on the Jumbotron, much to Zach’s amusement. “You’ll randomly hear the crowd go crazy,” he laughed, knowing it was likely his mom on the screen.

Zach’s bond with his mother is deep. She travels to watch every game, ensuring that her presence offers him steady support. Do you know she used to make him merch? Yes, during his sophomore year, she began creating merchandise for him, such as T-shirts featuring his nickname, “The Big Maple.” A cute moment, right? At a game in 2023, she handed him a new design that read, “He ain’t just tall, eh?!” The crowd cheered, showing their appreciation for her unique way of supporting Zach. But, despite being a supportive mother, she also has her private side.

Upon retiring, she took up beekeeping, a hobby that has become a passion. Her husband, Glen, gave her the book Beekeeping for Dummies one Christmas, sparking a new interest. Now, she manages three beehives in Canada, sharing the honey with Zach’s team and coaches. She even has a bee tattoo on her finger, a reminder of her first sting.

Julia’s volunteer work further exemplifies her character. In Indiana, she assists the Food Finders Food Bank and Natalie’s Second Chance Dog Shelter, both causes she deeply cares about. Julia’s selflessness is clear: she gives back to a community that has been so kind to Zach. The story about his parents ends here, but let’s look at his siblings.

Does Zach Edey have any siblings?

Yes, Zach Edey has one sibling, a brother named Doug Edey. Doug attended Leaside High School, where he also played basketball. Growing up, Zach and Doug shared a close bond. They shared experiences, from playing basketball to navigating the challenges of school.

Julia once expressed her deep gratitude for both sons, describing them as her blessings. “I truly cannot believe I can be here. That I have been given the gift of my two kids and this life,” she wrote on X. She often reflects on the joy of raising two children and cherishes their accomplishments. After Zach’s success in 2023, Julia shared her feelings on social media, calling her sons a gift.

In Zach’s words, family has been central to his journey. Through Doug’s silent support and his parents’ sacrifices, Zach’s success story wouldn’t have been the same without them. The Edey family remains united, always lifting each other toward greater heights.