Being a rookie in the league adds a lot of pressure. But when you’re drafted as the first overall pick, that pressure is doubled. Sure, you get a lot of adulations (and of course, the most money among the rookies), but if you fail to live up to the expectations, you’re soon branded as a bust. However, for Rhyne Howard, that has never been the concern. Drafted as the first overall pick in the 2022 WNBA draft, she has been living up to the expectations from day 1.

In fact, she began her WNBA journey with a solid 16-point performance. During her rookie season, she was named an All-Star, and the year ended with her winning the Rookie of the Year honors. Since then, she has continued to elevate her game and has continued to get better. This year, she is leading the Atlanta Dream to what could be a dream WNBA championship run. But long before a dream of a WNBA championship even began, Rhyne Howard’s life and basketball career were being shaped by her parents. Let’s learn more about who they are.

Who is Rhyne Howard’s Mother, Rhvonja “RJ” Avery?

Rhyne Howard’s mother, Rhvonja Avery, has had a huge impact on her basketball career. Rvonja Avery played college basketball for the Florida Gators. Naturally, he love for basketball was transformed to Rhyne as she picked up the game at an early age. In August 2023, a full-circle moment happened. Rhyne Howard was announced as an assistant coach for the Florida Gators. Though she is only going to be available during the WNBA off-season, it was an important moment for both Rhyne and Rhvonja.

Describing her feelings after the announcement, Rhyne said, “When you really think about it everything is full circle, my mom was a Gator herself and I have been on this campus multiple times, but to actually be able to wear the orange and blue, I know it’s making her proud, I know it’s making everyone who thought I was originally going to be a Florida Gator proud.”

Though it might only be for just a part of the season, there is no doubt that having her as an assistant is going to work wonders for the coming generations of the WNBA.

Who is Rhyne Howard’s Father, James Howard?

Rhyne Howard’s father is James Howard. Although he prefers to remain out of the public eye, he was always very supportive of Rhyne Howard throughout her childhood. His presence, nurturing, and care helped shape Rhyne Howard’s career. Throughout Rhyne Howard’s journey, his father was always present and made sure that Rhyne had everything she needed to be the best version of herself, on and off the court.

Does Rhyne Howard Have Any Siblings?

Yes, Rhyne Howard comes from a close-knit family and has four siblings in total, making her one of five children raised by her parents in Cleveland, Tennessee. This large family dynamic played a significant role in shaping her upbringing, providing a supportive environment that fostered her competitive spirit and love for basketball from a young age. Her siblings include two brothers, RaShawn Avery and James Howard Jr., and two sisters, Love Howard and Takema Sexton. While the family maintains a relatively low public profile, with limited details available about the siblings’ personal lives or careers, it’s clear from biographical accounts that they form a tight unit rooted in shared values and mutual encouragement.

RaShawn Avery, one of her brothers, shares the Avery surname with their mother, Rhvonja “RJ” Avery, suggesting possible ties to her side of the family. Similarly, James Howard Jr. carries their father’s name, indicating a direct paternal connection. On the sisters’ side, Love Howard also bears the Howard family name, while Takema Sexton has a different last name, which could imply marriage or other familial nuances, though no specific confirmation exists in public records. According to profiles from sources like her University of Kentucky athletics bio and Team USA athlete page, these siblings have been part of Rhyne’s support system throughout her journey, from her high school days at Bradley Central High School to her professional career.

What is the Nationality and Ethnicity of Rhyne Howard’s Parents?

Rhyne Howard’s parents, Rhvonja Avery and James Howard, are American nationals. While there is no information about their deep family background, the couple raised their family in Cleveland, Tennessee. Rhyne Howard attended Bradley Central High School there.

As per their ethnicity, both Rvonja and James Howard, and their children are African-Americans.

Shaped by her parents’ values and teachings, Rhyne Howard has continued to leave a mark on the WNBA. Dominating the game since her rookie season, she is finally in a position to think about the championships. With their win against the Indiana Fever last night, they are one step closer to getting to the next round and the next challenge. However, with the next game set to be in Indiana, Rhyne and the rest of the Atlanta Dream need to be on their A-games.