“I love her already!” said Aces’ coach Becky Hammon after a phone call with Aaliyah. How could she not? We’re talking about one of the best shooters in the country here. But Aaliyah also brings intangibles to the table that are worth their weight in gold.

Hailing from a family of athletes, Aaliyah embodies qualities like hard work and gratitude, understanding their importance at the highest level of the game. Coach Hammon went on to appreciate Aaliyah’s character and work ethic, showing equal amounts of love to her defense as her shooting. Aaliyah, however, owes it all to the support of her family. “Family support has played a major role in my development as a student, athlete and person,” she said, giving high praise to her parents. How did her parents manage to do it, you ask? Leading by example.

Who are Aaliyah Nye’s Parents?

James Nye and LaQueena Douglas are the parents of Aaliyah Nye. While her father, James, played football during his time at Albion College, a Division III program in Michigan, Aaliyah was more drawn to her mother’s path. “I did other sports like soccer,” said Aaliyah. “I did dance. But I think basketball really spoke to me. My mom played basketball, so I guess it came naturally. I think it really took off when I moved to Michigan and started playing with my high school team and AAU program.”

LaQueena moved to East Lansing when Aaliyah and her twin, Aashawnti, were freshmen. Initially hesitant about shifting to East Lansing High in Michigan, Aaliyah now credits her family for the move. “I was afraid to move from family and friends,” Aaliyah said. “I’m just afraid to meet new people sometimes. I was scared.” 

While Dad James fulfilled his duties in the background initially, he came to the forefront during Aaliyah’s later high school years. “The last two years that I have spent living with my dad has been good. He has taken good care of me and will do whatever it takes to make me a better basketball player,” said the Aces’ guard. James’ actions display his commitment to helping his daughter be the best version of herself. But his contribution was much more as he set examples quietly. “My dad truly cared and supported the team. He would do whatever it takes to make us a better program,” Nye said.

It is hence beyond a speck of doubt that Aaliyah’s parents have played a huge role in the path leading up to Vegas.

What is Aaliyah Nye’s parents’ nationality?

Aaliyah Nye is from Huntsville, Alabama, which is also the hometown of her mother. Her parents are native Americans and part of the Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians of Michigan (Gun Lake Tribe).

Aaliyah Nye Sisters: How many siblings does the Aces star have?

Aaliyah grew up with two sisters named Aazhenii and Aashawnti. Aazhenii is the elder sister of Aaliyah and Aashawnti, who are twins. The three have played together during their high school careers at East Lansing. Playing for a stacked high school team, Aashawnti showed appreciation, most of all, for playing with her siblings. “We’re all like sisters,” Aashawnti said. “Last names don’t mean anything to us. It’s like a family. We’re all together. We like playing with each other. It’s fun. Playing with sisters is even better.”

When Aaliyah made her move to Alabama, she once again underscored the value of family, stating her sisters as one of the reasons to go there. Aashawnti played for Alabama University at the time while their elder sister played for Illinois.