NBA Player Gary Payton II made headlines this week for an accomplishment off the court: he earned his Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences from Oregon State University (see their HDFS degree programs). The Golden State Warriors guard played at Oregon State for 2 seasons before leaving for the NBA, but had promised his mom he would ultimately finish his degree.

Payton surprised his mother with the diploma in late April. She shared the news on her Instagram account, expressing the pride and joy she felt for her son in keeping his promise. The Warriors also shared Payton's diploma on Twitter (see below).

This all comes at an especially busy time for Payton on the court. For those following the NBA playoffs, the Warriors will play Game 6 against the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday, May 12 in a best-of-seven series. The Lakers lead the series 3-2. The winner of this series will advance to the Western Conference Finals to play the Denver Nuggets. Payton previously helped lead the Warriors to an NBA championship in 2022.

Congrats to all 2023 graduates, especially NCFR's spring honors grads!

Looking to further your education in Family Science? Search NCFR's Degree Programs Guide for a program that best meets your needs. Who knows, you might be classmates with a future NBA Hall of Fame candidate!

*No promises of this being a recurring feature.