Naz Reid's Ethnicity: Exploring the Timberwolves Star's Family Roots, Religious Beliefs and More

“Sometimes I don’t even know if people know my real name. I don't really think about it because so many people call me 'Naz'.” Naz Reid said. Yes, let's start here! The actual name of the Minnesota Timberwolves' rising star is Nazreon Hilton Reid. Sometimes nicknames can replace actual names, leaving everyone completely surprised when they pop up. Undoubtedly, the name sounds like a Middle Eastern name or perhaps even a biblical inspiration. Let's dig deeper to find out Big Jelly's ethnicity and beliefs.

The 25-year-old, who is in his sixth season, has emerged as Wolves' top fan favorite. The 1.80 meter tall striker joined the team as an undrafted free agent and slowly but steadily developed into an important member of the team. He won the Sixth Man of the Year award last year, averaging 13.5 ppg and 6.6 rpg off the bench.

Whenever Naz Reid walked onto the field in the middle of a game, the decibel level in Target Center would suddenly rise. This is one of the proofs of the fans' enthusiasm for the big man. The fan base went up a notch when hundreds of fans wrote:Naz Reid' when a tattoo parlor offered to have it done for $25. Additionally, a Reddit post started a thread discussing when Naz Reid's fan base will be converted into a cult/religion. Speaking of religion, let's find out Reid's religious beliefs.

What religious beliefs does Naz Reid have?

Back to the topic: What is the background of the name Nazreon Hilton Reid? Well, the man himself answered the question in a recent interview. Ironically, Reid, like the rest of us, doesn't know the origin or roots of his name. But when he spoke of it, he said: “Actually, I think my godmother called me that.” And he said: “Not that I know of” when the interviewer asked if there was any religious aspect associated with his name.

Although there is no clear evidence of Reid's religion, we conclude that the rising star's faith may lean towards Christianity. We came to this conclusion after referring to his mother's name, Anashia, and the names of his second family members, Rudy and Sheila Roundtree.

It is important to note that Naz Reid had a special bond with Rudy and Shiela as parental figures and accepted them as his second family after his mother's approval. To understand it better, let's take a quick look at Reid's ethnicity and family roots.

What ethnicity is Naz Reid?

Naz Reid is an African American born in Asbury Park, New Jersey, USA. Although there is not much information about his family members other than his mother Sheila, Reid grew up alongside his sister, mother and grandmother. Star Tribune reported that the rising star learned basketball and soccer from his father during his childhood.

When he was in his mid-teens, Rudy and Shiela embraced him with open arms. Rudy Roundtree quickly became his father figure. Speaking about him, Reid said: “He was by my side every step of the way” Unfortunately, Wolves star Rudy lost to cancer in 2022 during the playoff series against the Grizzlies.

Reid said: “He kind of taught me how to be there for someone, the next person, and he kind of built it into my head and into my life… So it's kind of second nature to me now, this hand or that hand to reach.” Care. I think that’s definitely huge for me.” in an interview for the NY Times.

Naz Reid truly had an inspiring journey, entering the league as an undrafted player and winning the Sixth Man of the Year award. What do you like more about Reid's career? Let us know in the comments.