Monta Ellis was born on October 26, 1985 in Jackson, Mississippi. His passion for basketball came as a result of his brother Antwon’s incomparable abilities on the court, leaving him with the desire to be “just like his big brother.” Ellis’ raw talent for basketball became evident at a young age as he outshined his peers on the court, never boasting on his skills yet always entering the game with a humble and competitive spirit.
Ellis attended Lanier High School in Jackson where he was named Parade Magazine High School Player of the Year 2005 (along with Greg Oden) and a USA Today All-American. His high school career soared to new heights, after he scored his career-best 72 points in a game against Greenwood High School. Ellis culminated his high school basketball career with a total of 4,167 points, making him second all-time in Mississippi history. He received first-team all-state recognition from the Clarion-Ledger in all four of his high school seasons and was named Mississippi’s “Mr. Basketball” by the paper in 2005. It was here he earned the nickname “The Mississippi Bullet” for his magnificent speed, prolific scoring power and ability to make the most difficult shots.
Ellis was drafted by the Warriors in the second round (40th overall) in the 2005 NBA Draft. He demonstrated his talents with millions watching as he scored his first points on December 7, 2005 against the Phoenix Suns on a 3-point shot. In his third season, Ellis became one of the Warriors’ top performers, becoming a top player and pulling them through close games. He is a highly regarded leader and scorer that many of his fans have come to respect and admire. On March 13, 2012, Ellis was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. He continues to be a leading scorer serving as the team’s guard.
In 2010, Ellis founded the ME8Foundation that exists to strengthen the fabric of our community through philanthropic gifts in the areas of public service, education, preventive health, community development as well as broadening the awareness of issues that plague our community. To date, Ellis has donated over $100,000 and his unyielding commitment to give back will always be a top priority.
Ellis is married to his wife, Juanika, and they have two children, Monta Jr. and Myla Jai.