Former Los Angeles Lakers star Nick Young, also famously known as “Swaggy P,” is no stranger to the limelight, both for his NBA accomplishments and his off-court escapades. On Sunday, Young turned to Instagram to celebrate a more personal milestone: his longtime partner and fiancée, Keonna Green’s birthday. The couple, who have been together on and off for more than two decades, shared the special day with fans through a series of intimate photos, where Young affectionately embraced and kissed Green.
In a playful yet heartfelt caption, Young wrote: “Happy Birthday to MY FAVORITE!! !!!4kids later and the body still drive me crazy 🤪 #SBW”—a reference to their growing family and the chemistry that’s kept them together through thick and thin. With a shared history that spans back to their high school days, Young and Green’s relationship has been a rollercoaster ride of public drama and personal triumphs. However, despite the ups and downs, they’ve built a family together, raising their four children—Nick Jr., Navi, Nyce, and Naji.
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The post comes as a reminder of the complex nature of Young’s public and private life. While the former NBA star is known for his exuberant personality on and off the court, his love life has not been without controversy. Over the years, Young’s name has been linked with several high-profile relationships, including with rapper Iggy Azalea and singer Paloma Ford. His engagement to Green in 2019 seemed like the final chapter of their long-running relationship saga, yet fans are still awaiting a wedding date announcement.
Despite the couple’s apparent love and commitment, their relationship has not been without its share of complications. In 2016, Young and Azalea had a very public breakup, reportedly caused by a cheating scandal involving Green, which led to the eventual rekindling of Young and Green’s romance. While some have criticized the couple’s on-again, off-again nature, they appear stronger than ever, as evidenced by Young’s birthday post.
While Nick Young’s birthday tribute to Green seemed like an innocent celebration of their love, social media was quick to reignite debates about the NBA star’s readiness to settle down. Fans have long speculated about the future of Young and Green’s relationship, particularly given their prolonged engagement and Young’s history of dating high-profile celebrities. With no official wedding date in sight, many are left wondering whether the two will ever make it down the aisle.
Critics point to Young’s notorious “Swaggy P” persona, which has often overshadowed his accomplishments on the court. From his flashy style to his celebrity flings, Young has built an image as a player who enjoys the limelight. For some, this raises doubts about his ability to commit fully to a long-term relationship, even one that has spanned over two decades and produced four children.
Still, others argue that Young’s public tribute to Green is a sign of maturity and growth. After all, it’s not every day that an NBA player-turned-celebrity takes time to publicly acknowledge the love and support of his long-time partner, especially in a world that often celebrates short-lived romances over long-term commitments. Young’s words, while playful, carry a sincerity that suggests he may finally be ready to close the chapter on his bachelor days and fully embrace his role as a family man.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Nick Young story without some element of fun and humor. During a recent interview with VladTV, Young shared an unexpected tidbit about his NBA career, revealing that Hollywood comedian Will Ferrell is one of the best trash talkers he’s ever encountered courtside. Known for his quick wit and hilarious antics, Ferrell has made a name for himself as a courtside presence at NBA games.
Young recalled a particular instance where Ferrell got under his skin with a cheeky comment: “Will Ferrell. He says some slick stuff. If you’re missing, he’ll say something like, ‘Make a shot. If you can’t make that, I’ll put a jersey on.'”
Ferrell’s trash talk didn’t just amuse fans—it also added a unique layer to Young’s on-court experience. It’s one thing to face hecklers in the stands, but it’s another to be on the receiving end of a roasting from a world-famous comedian. Nevertheless, Young, with his carefree attitude and sense of humor, seemed to take it in stride. Perhaps it’s this same laid-back approach that has helped him navigate both his basketball career and his personal life.
Nick Young’s career may have been defined by his “Swaggy P” persona, but his legacy is more complex. His NBA career, which spanned 12 seasons and saw him play for six different teams, was highlighted by his time with the Lakers and Warriors, including winning an NBA championship with Golden State in 2018. Yet, it’s his larger-than-life personality that has kept him in the spotlight, even after his retirement from the league.
What’s clear from Young’s latest post is that, despite his public image, he deeply values his family. His relationship with Keonna Green, though marked by its ups and downs, is one that he seems committed to. Whether or not the two will officially tie the knot remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Nick Young, both on and off the court, knows how to keep people talking.
As Young transitions into the next phase of his life, fans will be watching closely to see whether “Swaggy P” can leave behind the antics that made him famous and focus fully on his role as a father and partner. If his recent post is any indication, he might just be ready for that leap.
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