Pete Lucas Nance, born in Akron, Ohio, on February 19, 2000, has been making waves since his impressive preseason performance with the Bucks against the Heat. The forward has bounced around the NBA, playing for Cleveland and Philadelphia, and in the G League too. What people may not know, however, is his fascinating family history, which includes a line of bona fide NBA players.

Who are Pete Nance’s parents?

Pete Nance comes from a family deeply rooted in the game of basketball. His father, Larry Nance Sr., is an NBA legend who played for the Phoenix Suns and Cleveland Cavaliers, having his #22 jersey retired for the latter. He was selected to the All-Star team and All-Defensive teams thrice, and won the first-ever Slam-Dunk contest in 1984. After retiring from the NBA, he stayed active in the community and business, including investing in NHRA drag racing.

The investment blood runs in the family, as Pete’s brother, Larry, has also invested in the soccer club Leeds United and the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers ownership group.

His mother, Jaynee Nance, though not involved in basketball, is the family’s emotional anchor. She has been a supportive presence in her kids’ athletic careers while also keenly participating in charity and community-related endeavors.

What Ethnicity are Pete Nance’s Parents?

Larry and Jaynee are both American in nationality; however, we’re unsure about their ethnicity. The family has close connections to Akron, Ohio, and their bond with the community has been on display often. There was an instance in 2020 when Larry Nance Jr. donated $100k to a good cause. $50,000 was for the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank and the other half was sent to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

Who are Pete Nance’s siblings?

Pete’s brother, Larry Nance Jr., is perhaps the most well-known of the Nance children. Nance Jr. was drafted in 2015 by the Los Angeles Lakers after a four-year stint at Wyoming. Currently in his second stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers, he’s known for being a reliable defender and floor spacing forward, and is expected to a member in Cleveland’s rotation this year.

Pete’s sister, Casey Nance, was a center for the Dayton Flyers for four years and currently works in corporate hospitality. She also previously worked with the Cleveland Guardians as an Event and Experience Coordinator.

Pete Nance’s tight-knit relationship with his parents

Pete Nance was surrounded by basketball growing up. Unlike many second-generation athletes who feel pressure to follow in their parents’ footsteps, Pete’s experience was filled with freedom and knowledge.

“He really let us find it for ourselves, and that’s one thing I’m really thankful for from him… I bet it’s really easy to force your kid into playing basketball when you love it so much… But I feel like I’d be playing basketball no matter what my last name would be,” Pete said about his father’s influence.

Independence has benefited Pete in his basketball journey. When the Cavs signed him on a two-way contract, he reflected on how the franchise was deeply connected to his family journey: “It’s really cool to follow in my dad and brother’s footsteps. It definitely means a lot to me. I’m appreciative of them and have used them as a huge guideline in this journey. But at the same time, I definitely want to make a name for myself and make my own path.”

Through the guidance of his parents, Pete has learned not only how to play, but also how to conduct himself as a bona fide pro, both on and off the court. As his career with the Bucks continues, Pete Nance continues to represent what his family stands for: perseverance and love for the game, which spans generations.