When talking about rising stars in college basketball, the name Zach Edey is one that immediately comes to mind. Standing tall at 7’4”, Edey has captured national attention as one of the most dominant players in NCAA basketball, particularly with the Purdue Boilermakers. While his incredible size, skill, and determination make headlines, what often goes unnoticed is the story of his family, particularly his parents.
The support, guidance, and sacrifices of his parents have played a massive role in shaping Zach into the player and person he is today. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the lives of Zach Edey’s parents, their background, their influence on his career, and how their values continue to guide him on and off the court.
Who Are Zach Edey’s Parents?
Zach was born on May 14, 2002, in Toronto, Canada, to Julia and Glen Edey. His parents, though not household names, have been instrumental in his journey. Each of them has unique life experiences and qualities that have shaped Zach’s personality and work ethic.
His Mother: Julia Edey
Julia has often been described as the “rock” of the family. She is known for being a strong, supportive, and dedicated parent who has always placed Zach’s needs first. Julia comes from a Chinese background, and Zach has proudly embraced his mixed heritage.
She was highly active in encouraging Zach’s interest in sports from an early age, even though his athletic journey didn’t begin with basketball. Julia’s approach to parenting emphasized discipline, resilience, and humility—values that continue to reflect in Zach’s demeanor both on and off the court.
What makes Julia even more inspiring is her willingness to adapt. At first, she knew little about basketball. But as Zach grew taller and showed potential, she immersed herself in learning about the sport, attending practices and games, and offering both moral and practical support.
His Father: Glen Edey
On the other side, Glen Edey, Zach’s father, has been equally supportive. While less is publicly known about Glen compared to Julia, he has been described as someone who instilled patience, balance, and determination in his son.
Glen’s influence is often seen in Zach’s calm and collected personality on the court. He doesn’t let pressure or criticism get to him easily, which is something many attribute to the solid foundation laid by his father.
Together, Julia and Glen created an environment where Zach could explore his talents while staying grounded.
Zach’s Early Life: How His Parents Shaped His Journey
Before dominating the paint in college basketball, Zach’s journey started in a very different direction. His parents initially guided him into baseball. Standing taller than most kids even in middle school, Zach was a standout pitcher and first baseman.
Julia and Glen noticed his athletic gifts early but never pressured him into one sport. Instead, they allowed him to explore his options. This freedom eventually led Zach to try basketball, albeit later than most of his peers.
Unlike many basketball prodigies who start playing seriously by the age of 5 or 6, Zach only began playing basketball around 2017, when he was already in high school. His rapid improvement is a testament not just to his talent but also to the unwavering encouragement from his parents.
The Challenges of Raising a 7-Foot-Tall Teenager
Raising a child with exceptional height and athletic potential isn’t always easy. For Julia and Glen, adapting to Zach’s needs meant making unique adjustments:
- Clothing and Equipment: Finding clothes, shoes, and sports equipment for a growing teen who was already towering over his peers wasn’t always simple.
- Health and Nutrition: Ensuring Zach received proper nutrition to support his unusual growth was a priority for his parents.
- Social Challenges: Being taller than everyone else made Zach stand out. His parents played a crucial role in helping him embrace his uniqueness rather than feel isolated.
Through it all, Julia and Glen emphasized positivity. They taught Zach to see his height not as a burden but as an advantage—something that would eventually become a defining factor in his basketball career.
A Mother’s Dedication: Julia’s Role in Zach’s Career
One of the most touching aspects of Zach’s story is his mother Julia’s dedication. She didn’t just support him from the sidelines; she actively helped manage his early career.
From arranging travel to practices and tournaments, to making sure he stayed on top of academics while pursuing sports, Julia took on the role of both cheerleader and manager. She has often been seen at games, proudly wearing Purdue gear and cheering for her son.
Her sacrifices also highlight the struggles many sports parents face—long hours, financial commitments, and emotional investment. Yet, Julia has consistently expressed that seeing her son succeed makes it all worthwhile.
The Cultural Influence: Embracing His Mixed Heritage
Zach’s parents also provided him with a strong sense of cultural identity. With a Chinese mother and a Canadian father, Zach grew up in a multicultural household. This blend of traditions, values, and perspectives has made him more adaptable and grounded.
He has often spoken about how proud he is of his heritage, and much of that pride stems from how his parents instilled it in him from a young age. His ability to connect with diverse communities is a reflection of the inclusive environment his parents nurtured.
Lessons Learned from His Parents
Zach Edey’s journey is not just about his athletic rise—it’s also about the values he carries from his parents. Some of the key lessons he has learned from Julia and Glen include:
- Humility: Despite his fame, Zach remains approachable and humble, a trait he credits to his parents’ grounding influence.
- Resilience: His late start in basketball could have discouraged him, but his parents encouraged him to persevere.
- Discipline: Both Julia and Glen emphasized the importance of discipline in academics, sports, and personal life.
- Family First: No matter how busy his schedule gets, Zach often mentions his family, showing the strong bond they share.
Where Are His Parents Now?
Julia and Glen continue to support Zach closely. Julia has been spotted frequently at Purdue games, cheering her son on, while Glen stays more private but remains equally involved in his success.
Their pride is evident, not just in Zach’s athletic achievements, but also in the person he has become. They’ve repeatedly stated that their biggest joy is seeing Zach grow into a hardworking, kind, and grounded young man.
Conclusion: The Silent Pillars Behind the Star
While much of the spotlight shines on Zach Edey for his dominance in college basketball, it’s impossible to overlook the pivotal role his parents, Julia and Glen Edey, have played in his journey. From supporting him in his late start to basketball, to instilling values of humility and discipline, they’ve been the foundation upon which Zach has built his success.
