Gary Payton Sr. Cheering for His Son’s Big Playoff Moments

SAN FRANCISCO – Former NBA star Gary Payton Sr. celebrated his son’s accomplishments after the Golden State Warriors’ Game 3 playoff victory over the Houston Rockets on April 28, 2025.

As the game concluded, Payton Sr. took pictures and high-fived fans at Chase Center while eagerly keeping an eye on the court. “Hold on, let me talk to my son real quick,” he said, making his way to Gary Payton II, who contributed significantly in that game.

Playing in the absence of injured guard Jimmy Butler, Payton II scored 11 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter, alongside three steals, leading the Warriors to a 2-1 series lead in the best-of-seven playoff.

After the game, the younger Payton reflected on his relationship with his father. “When I was growing up, he always used to talk and say something during the game,” Payton II said. “Now, he don’t. He just enjoys the game.”

Gary Payton Sr., known as one of the greatest defenders in NBA history, is also the head coach at Alameda College, just outside of Oakland. His son, however, faced numerous challenges on his path to the NBA, including going undrafted in 2016 and spending five years in the NBA G League.

Payton Sr. shared his pride in his son’s journey: “He went through everything. He went through the trials and tribulations and he got it,” he told Andscape.

Both father and son experienced success, with Payton II winning an NBA championship with the Warriors in 2022. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr praised Payton II’s impact during the playoffs, particularly in the 2022 NBA Finals.

During Game 3, Payton II approached the fourth quarter ready to turn his performance around after a disappointing outing in Game 2. “He knew he didn’t have a great trip in Houston,” Kerr noted. “He was kind of due.”

With renewed confidence, Payton II took charge in the fourth quarter, executing vital plays that ultimately helped secure the win for the Warriors.

As Payton Sr. watched from his seat, he offered guidance to his son, strengthening their supportive bond. “When he started shooting the ball, he hits it. When he is wide open he’s going to knock it down,” Payton Sr. said.

After the game, Payton II expressed gratitude for his father’s support. “He says a lot without saying a lot. I know it. I get it,” he said.

Payton Sr. concluded, “Now, I can sit up here and be a proud dad. My offspring is doing the same thing I did in the NBA, and I’m happy for that.”