Naji Marshall’s NBA journey didn’t begin under the brightest lights. But from undrafted to undeniable, the Dallas Mavericks forward has made a name for himself through grit, hustle, and raw talent. Whether it’s locking down opponents or stepping into the spotlight when it counts, Marshall is all heart—and that heart, as it turns out, was molded by the people who raised him.
Behind the buckets and big moments is a strong family foundation. So who are the ones who helped shape Naji Marshall into the tough competitor he is today? Let’s take a look at the parents, siblings, and roots that power the Mavericks’ rising star.
Who Are Naji Marshall’s Parents? What Do They Do for a Living?
Raised by two hardworking parents in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Naji grew up in a home where excellence wasn’t optional; it was expected. His father, Maurice Marshall, wasn’t just any athlete. He was a professional boxer. That meant discipline. Grit. And the kind of quiet toughness that speaks louder than words. Today, Maurice coaches basketball at an elementary school, still deeply connected to sport and mentorship.
“My dad was a professional boxer. He stopped early. He was 31. I think he stopped early just to be there for his kids, with me having five brothers,” Naji said. “We grew up boxing training. I never really fought nobody, but almost pursued that career. I’m glad I didn’t, though.”
His mother, Rayna Whitted, balanced that intensity with compassion. A long-time employee at Providence Hospital in Washington, D.C., Rayna’s career in the medical field was equally demanding—but in a different way. “I just saw them get up early in the morning to go to work… work as hard as they possibly could to have the best life; all of that came through with me on the basketball court,” Marshall said in an interview.
The combination of athletic grit and caregiving grace ended up creating a household where both physical and emotional strength were nurtured. And nowhere was that more evident than at the local rec center, where Rayna’s long shifts gave Naji the opportunity to fall in love with the game. “If it wasn’t for the rec center,” he said, “I wouldn’t be here.”
That upbringing didn’t just give Naji the tools to make it. It gave him the fire to stand out. Whether it’s diving for loose balls or throwing hands when provoked (as in his now-infamous altercation with Jusuf Nurkić in March 2025), Naji plays with an unmistakable edge. Call it passion. Call it fearlessness. Either way, it’s the kind of intensity that can only come from growing up with something and someone to fight for.
Does Naji Marshall Have Any Siblings?
Yes, he does, and plenty of them. Naji grew up in a big, full of energy household with five brothers and one sister: Maurice, Martia, Craig, Tai, Ausin, and Myles. In a home like that, competition isn’t just encouraged, it is inevitable. Pickup games in the driveway, racing for the last snack in the fridge, or just trying to stand out, Naji learned early on how to hold his own.
Being one of many also likely helped shape Naji into a team player—a trait that has been praised about him since college. It’s not just about individual stats with him; it’s about doing what the team needs. Maybe that selflessness was learned around the dinner table.
Faith also played a central role in the household. Naji’s deep belief in God and commitment to honoring his spiritual foundation stem from his upbringing. “I’m a Christian. It means strong warrior or survivor. My dad’s real name is Maurice, but his Muslim nickname is Naji.”
“None of us would be here without God… I just try to make him proud and honor the gift he gave me,” Naji shared. In another interview, he said, “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.”
That spiritual compass, passed down from his parents, adds another layer to the work ethic and resilience that defines him on and off the court.
What Is Naji Marshall’s Parents’ Nationality?
While there’s been some online confusion due to another athlete named Maurice Marshall from New Zealand, Naji’s father is American. Boxing records and multiple interviews point to Maurice Kenneth Marshall, a U.S.-based professional fighter, as Naji’s dad.
His mother, Rayna Whitted, is also believed to be American. Her long-term work in a D.C. hospital and life in the United States make this a reasonable conclusion, especially given the lack of evidence suggesting otherwise. So, in short—yes, both of Naji Marshall’s parents are American.
Therefore, For all the headlines Naji Marshall makes on the court, the real story is what built him off it. Maurice Marshall’s boxing grit. Rayna Whitted’s quiet strength. A big family that molded a competitor. And a player who never forgets where he came from.
Whether he’s locking down a star forward or throwing hands in a heated moment, one thing’s clear—Naji Marshall is the product of a powerful upbringing. And he’s just getting started.
The post Who Are Naji Marshall’s Parents Maurice Marshall and Rayna Whitted? All About the Mavericks Star’s Family & Other Details Revealed appeared first on EssentiallySports.