Kniko Howard, the eldest son of TV personality and entrepreneur Draya Michele, has been a figure of intrigue for fans for years. While Draya has built her career in the public eye, much of Kniko’s life, including details about his father, has remained shrouded in mystery.
Draya Michele, known for her appearances on VH1’s Basketball Wives LA, has consistently drawn attention, not only for her professional success but also for her personal life. However, when it comes to her children, she has been careful about how much she shares. In particular, fans have long been curious about Kniko Howard’s father and the relationship between the two. Let’s dive into what we do know about Kniko Howard, his life, and the elusive father figure that sparked so much speculation.
Early Life of Kniko Howard
Born in 2002, Kniko Howard is the firstborn child of Draya Michele. At just 17 years old, Draya welcomed Kniko into the world, embarking on her motherhood journey while simultaneously building her career. Now, in 2024, Kniko Howard is 22 years old, a milestone that not only marks his transition into adulthood but also further piques public curiosity about the man behind his name.
Despite Draya’s rise to fame, Kniko has managed to stay relatively low-profile. Unlike many celebrity children, he has chosen to lead a private life away from the cameras, allowing him to grow and mature on his terms. Raised primarily by Draya, Kniko has undoubtedly been a part of his mother’s journey, watching her evolve from a reality TV star to a successful fashion entrepreneur.
Who is Kniko Howard’s Father?
Of all the questions fans have posed over the years, “Who is Kniko Howard’s dad?” is perhaps the most persistent. Draya has kept the details about Kniko’s father largely under wraps, fueling ongoing rumors and speculation. For years, whispers swirled that former NBA star Gilbert Arenas might be Kniko’s father. This rumor gained traction after Jennifer Williams, Draya’s co-star on Basketball Wives, suggested the connection.
However, Draya Michele was quick to put the speculation to rest. In 2016, she addressed the issue directly on social media, revealing the truth about Kniko’s father. According to Draya, Kniko’s father is Kniko Howard Sr., a barber based in Pennsylvania. Unlike his famous ex, Kniko Sr. has never sought the limelight and prefers a quieter life.
Draya explained that she became pregnant at 17 by Kniko Sr., who was incarcerated shortly after. With the unwavering support of her mother, Draya raised Kniko as a single parent, determined to give him the best possible life. While details about Kniko Sr.’s involvement in his son’s life remain sparse, Draya has emphasized that he is a hardworking individual who continues to live in Pennsylvania.
Draya Michele’s Life as a Mother
While Kniko Howard Sr. may not have been actively in the public eye, Draya Michele’s other relationships have been far more visible. Draya’s second child, Jru Scandrick, was born in 2016 during her relationship with former NFL player Orlando Scandrick. The couple’s on-and-off relationship was well-documented, but despite their eventual breakup, they co-parent Jru successfully.
In 2023, Draya began a relationship with NBA player Jalen Green, and in May 2024, the couple welcomed their daughter, making Kniko and Jru older siblings to the newest addition to the family.
Kniko appears to have a close bond with his younger siblings, stepping into the role of the protective older brother. Draya has shared glimpses of their family dynamics on social media, showcasing moments of togetherness and celebration.
Kniko Howard’s Net Worth and Future Prospects
At 22, Kniko Howard has remained out of the entertainment industry, focusing on his education and personal pursuits. His net worth is not publicly known, as he has yet to step into a career that garners public attention. However, with a mother like Draya, who boasts an estimated net worth of around $1 million to $2 million, Kniko has had the opportunity to grow up in a financially stable environment.
Draya Michele, beyond her TV fame, is a successful businesswoman, owning fashion lines such as Mint Swim and Beige & Coco. Her entrepreneurial ventures have allowed her to secure financial independence and stability, ensuring that her children are well taken care of.
The Bond Between Draya and Kniko
Draya Michele’s journey as a mother has been anything but conventional, yet her unwavering dedication to her children is evident. From raising Kniko as a single teen mom to expanding her family with new partners, Draya has consistently prioritized her children’s well-being. She has often described motherhood as the most important role in her life, and her pride in Kniko shines through in the rare moments she shares about him.
Kniko Howard may not be in the public eye like his mother, but his story remains one of resilience, privacy, and familial love. While fans may continue to wonder about the specifics of his relationship with his father, one thing is clear: Kniko Howard is carving his own path, supported by the strong foundation his mother has built.