The Golden State Warriors suffered a disappointing defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers last night. While it was a closely fought game, costly errors down the stretch proved pivotal. Stephen Curry didn’t get going until the final quarter, which possibly played a big role in the final outcome. However, not everything is gloomy in San Francisco. A day before the battle, a Warriors star, who suffers from a disorder that has affected more than 40 million people, shared some inspiring news on Twitter that left the fanbase teary-eyed.

Gary Payton II was an integral part of the Warriors 2022 Championship-winning team. Despite joining the Portland Trail Blazers last offseason, Payton found his way back to Oakland a couple of months back. And now, the 30-year-old surprised his mother with an update that must have surely left her feeling proud of her son.

Stephen Curry’s teammate shares a wholesome surprise

Payton recently took to his Twitter handle and shared a photo of his university diploma. This update comes as a delightful and special surprise for the Dubs star’s mother who always wanted GPII to have a complete education despite the learning struggles he had in his childhood.

Even AP sports writer Janie McCauley, who has been following GPII’s journey for a while, shared a short clip of the 2022 NBA champion talking about the reason behind this milestone. He affectionately shared, “It’s really for mom. I made her a promise to get it done and finished when I left school, so just keeping my word and got that to her.”

WATCH THIS STORY: “You Filthy Animal”: Damian Lillard, Kevin Durant, Trae Young and Other Stars Left Awestruck as Stephen Curry “Baptized” De’Aaron Fox’s Kings With a 50-Piece 

He further added a sweet message for his mother at the end, “Hope you enjoy it, love it and it was for you.”

The sweet surprise has been making its way through the hearts of Payton’s fans and his teammates are enjoying his happiness as well. However, it is noteworthy to explore Payton’s journey to this stage in his life.

Gary Payton II’s Journey to Success with the Warriors

GPII has been following in his father’s footsteps and is one of the best wing defenders in the league presently. He even shares his nickname with Gary Payton Sr. who too was called ‘The Glove’. While many see him as a legacy player, he overcame a lot of personal struggles to get here.

GPII was diagnosed with dyslexia at a very young age, which hindered his learning ability for a long time, till he found a way to adapt. It is this quality that has been helping him persevere throughout his life, including in basketball. 

For someone who had been struggling to read and grasp simple concepts as a child, it is a huge milestone for Gary Payton II and his family to see him complete his diploma at last. 

Read More: “Can Admit When I’m Wrong”: Lakers Legend Magic Johnson Joins Thousands in Disbelief as Stephen Curry Gets a Major Upset in Warriors vs Kings Game 6