Draya Michele, a multifaceted entrepreneur, actress, and former star of Basketball Wives LA, welcomed her first child, Kniko Howard, in 2002 when she was just 17 years old. Raised by a strong and supportive mother herself, Draya found inspiration and resilience in navigating the challenges of being a young mom.
In a candid 2019 interview with E! News, Draya reflected on her early motherhood journey, sharing how her mother’s support helped her persevere. “I had a really, really strong mom who taught me to overcome any situation I was put in,” she said. “I wasn’t afraid because I knew my mom would always have my back.” This foundation empowered her to balance the responsibilities of parenting while building her career.
Kniko has largely stayed out of the spotlight, but Draya has occasionally shared glimpses of their close bond. The mother-son duo attended notable events together, including the premiere of Despicable Me 3 in 2017 and the iHeartRadio Music Awards in 2018, where they walked the red carpet side by side.
Beyond public appearances, Draya has expressed immense pride in Kniko’s milestones. In August 2021, she celebrated his admission to Georgia State University in Atlanta with a heartfelt Instagram post. “Well, it’s official. I’m a college mom,” she wrote. “I’m so proud of you, son! College, whew 😥 I mean, I knew you’d make it here. I hope you grow, learn, and make new friends here in ATL SHAWTY. ♥️ I love you.”
Kniko’s journey into adulthood has been a source of joy for Draya. Their relationship evolved over the years, especially as Kniko transitioned from being an only child to a big brother. When Draya became pregnant with her second child, Jru, she revealed that Kniko was one of the first to know. “I felt really bad keeping it a secret from him,” she told PEOPLE in 2016. “He’s excited to be a big brother and wants to teach him soccer.”
While Draya remains protective of Kniko’s privacy, her social media posts occasionally offer fans a glimpse into their family life, showcasing a bond built on mutual love, respect, and support. As Kniko grows into adulthood, Draya continues to celebrate his accomplishments while balancing her role as a mother, entrepreneur, and public figure.
For more details on another prominent figure, check out our post on All About Jennifer Marina Joy-Morancho.
