Zaya Wade Discusses Dating Challenges with Dwyane Wade as Father

LOS ANGELES, CA — Zaya Wade, the 17-year-old daughter of retired NBA star Dwyane Wade, recently shared insights into her dating life, describing the contrasting approaches her parents take in navigating relationships. In an interview published on February 24, she explained how the support from her dad and stepmom, Gabrielle Union, shapes her experiences as a teenager.

‘They’re really cool about it,’ Zaya said, noting her stepmother’s enthusiasm for discussing high school gossip. ‘Me and my stepmom love to dish the dirt and tap into the high school gossip. She gets excited for me when I’m like, ‘Oh, I like this person.’’ This playful dynamic allows Zaya to share her interests freely with her stepmother.

However, Dwyane Wade, known for his towering presence and booming voice, takes on a more protective role as a father. Zaya admitted, ‘My dad…he tries to scare any person I have interest in. He’s kind of intimidating. The people I’ve dated have all been afraid of him in the first interaction. He’s gigantic.’ Despite his initial intimidating facade, she added, ‘But the facade only lasts for so long and you actually see his real personality. He’s a teddy bear.’

When discussing her personal views on dating, Zaya remarked that she and her peers often find themselves in ‘situationships’ rather than traditional relationships. ‘I could lie and say we’re just trying to get into college, but we’re high school girls,’ she quipped. ‘In no way are we opposed to a relationship, but sometimes there’s comfort in not being so locked in. At the end of the day, I have to focus on me.’

Zaya’s relationship with her father extends beyond dating advice. She expressed admiration for Dwyane’s acceptance of her as a trans woman, acknowledging the challenges of growing up in a traditional Black household. ‘As an African American male, to be so openly and outwardly accepting is inspiring,’ Zaya said. ‘Because honestly, him being raised in a traditional Black household in Chicago…the culture there isn’t very queer-friendly.’

She hopes their family’s experience serves as a beacon for others. ‘I hope that it will continue to inspire people to allow themselves to learn and understand queerness before bashing it,’ she added.

Zaya describes her father as her biggest advocate, crediting him with playing an essential role in her journey toward self-acceptance. ‘Kids always tend to look up to their parents, but not only did I idolize him growing up and see him as a real person, I realize that he has played such an essential role in supporting me,’ she said. ‘He’s been so supportive and my biggest advocate.’

This support has been especially crucial for Zaya as she navigates her identity publicly. ‘Coming out is such a big change. It’s hard to navigate. We’ve all learned more about each other and the way we can coexist and grow together in this crazy world, especially in the public eye,’ she said. ‘At the end of the day though, we are a family, and we support and love each other and we are grateful.’

As Zaya finds her footing in the dating world, she not only values the guidance from her parents but cherishes individual moments they share, such as binge-watching shows that resonate with her experience. She recounted a heartwarming movie night where her dad introduced her to the queer-themed series “Heartstopper.” ‘When I tell you it was 1 in the morning and we were on episode 8 of 9…Every time a new one comes out, there’s a text message, ‘Oh my god, the new Heartstopper just dropped,’’ she said, reflecting on their special bond.