It all started with what looked like an innocent moment under the kitchen table. Back in November 2008, Ray Allen and his wife Shannon caught their youngest son, Walker, quietly munching on M&M’s. At first glance, it was the kind of mischief you’d expect from a little kid. But the aftermath was anything but normal. “I don’t know how he got them, but his blood-sugar level went through the roof,” the Celtics legend shared, recalling the alarming episode that would soon lead to a life-changing diagnosis.

Following that scare, things escalated quickly. Walker was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes during the NBA Finals week—on the very day of Game 5, no less. Despite the intensity of the Finals, Allen didn’t think twice. He rushed to the hospital right after the game, stayed in Los Angeles with his son the next day, and then took a red-eye back to Boston for Game 6. What doctors told him afterwards stuck with him. They said Walker would need an extraordinary level of discipline and structure moving forward—traits that would ultimately shape him into something special.

Fast forward to May 2025, and the fear of that early diagnosis became pride. Not only did Walker rise above the challenges, but he also just hit a huge milestone—his graduation. And Ray Allen couldn’t hold back his joy, writing, “Congratulations, @_walkerallen4 🎓👏 From that challenging day in 2008 to this incredible milestone—your journey has been nothing short of inspiring.” But Allen didn’t stop there.

The former Celtics star gave the world a glimpse into why this moment meant so much: “Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just 17 months, you’ve faced life with strength, resilience, and grace beyond your years. Today, as you graduate high school and prepare for your next chapter at @hotchkiss, know that your family, friends, and so many who’ve followed your story are incredibly proud of you.” Adding even more weight to this celebration—Walker isn’t just any graduate.

Allen Jr. is a high-IQ point guard who’s already joined Hotchkiss as part of the class of 2026. Ray summed it up best: “You’ve already shown the world what it means to overcome and to lead with courage. Keep shining, keep growing, and carry that same heart into everything you do next. We love you!” And if all that wasn’t enough, there’s another cool twist to the family’s story.

Ray Allen finishes his unfinished business

While Ray Allen was cheering on his son Walker’s high school graduation this May, the NBA legend had his own cap-and-gown moment not long ago. In May 2023, the Hall of Famer earned his bachelor’s degree from UConn, nearly two decades after first entering the league.

According to the Hartford Courant’s Joe Arruda, Allen completed his degree in General Studies—something he started back in 2008 but really doubled down on during the pandemic when the world slowed down and he found time to commit.

Then again, Allen made it clear this achievement was bigger than just crossing a stage. “When I was in school, there was a couple of RAs that were in their 30s and I thought, ‘Wow, they’re still in school. It’s never too late to learn,’” Allen said.

“This day isn’t about me, it’s about the people that helped me along the way to finish this mission, be on this journey to graduate from college. And you got to do it by yourself but it’s made up of a lot of people around you, so I didn’t want it to be about me walking in and everybody, you know. These kids are on their individual journeys, so I was so inspired to be sitting next to them and talking to them.”

Not to mention, Allen had already built an impressive college resume at UConn. From 1993 to 1996, he averaged 19 points and 6 rebounds a game, nailed nearly 45% from three, and grabbed multiple All-Big East honors. And to top it off, his No. 34 jersey still hangs in the rafters—making him the only UConn men’s player to earn that honor. Add in his No. 5 pick status, two NBA titles, and 2018 Hall of Fame induction, and yeah—it’s been an upward curve for the Allen family!