Monta Ellis Biography: Monta Jerome Ellis born on October 26, 1985, is a former American professional basketball player. He attended Lanier High School in Jackson, Mississippi, where he gained national attention as a McDonald’s All-American and a first-team Parade All-American. Rather than playing college basketball, Ellis enter the NBA straight out of high school and was select 40th overall by the Golden State Warriors in the 2005 NBA Draft. In 2007, he earned NBA Most Improved Player honors. Known for his scoring ability, Ellis average nearly 25 points per game in two different seasons, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier offensive talents. Ellis spent six and a half seasons with the Golden State Warriors before being trade to the Milwaukee Bucks in March 2012.
Monta Ellis Biography
Monta Ellis, a former NBA standout, earned a reputation for his exceptional scoring ability and quickness on the court. Selected directly out of Lanier High School by the Golden State Warriors in the 2005 NBA Draft, Ellis quickly rose to prominence and became a fan favorite due to his exciting, high-energy style of play. Often averaging over 20 points per game, he formed a dynamic backcourt duo with Stephen Curry during his time in Golden State. Ellis’s NBA career also included productive runs with the Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, and Indiana Pacers. One of his standout achievements was winning the NBA Most Improved Player award in 2007. Although he stepped away from the league in 2017 following his tenure with the Pacers, Ellis has expressed interest in making a potential return to professional basketball.
Monta Ellis Biography 2025 Details
| Born | October 26, 1985 (age 39) Jackson, Mississippi, U.S. |
| Listed height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Listed weight | 185 lb (84 kg) |
| High school | Lanier (Jackson, Mississippi) |
| NBA draft | 2005: 2nd round, 40th overall pick |
| Drafted by | Golden State Warriors |
| Playing career | 2005–2017 |
| Position | Shooting guard |
| Category | Football Biographies |
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About Monta Ellis
Monta Jerome Ellis is an American former professional basketball player. Ellis attended Lanier High School in Jackson, Mississippi, where he was a McDonald’s All-American and first-team Parade All-American.
Monta Ellis Wiki
- Born: 26 October 1985 (age 39 years), Jackson, Mississippi, United States
- Dates joined: 2015 (Indiana Pacers) ·
- Number: 8 (Golden State Warriors / Shooting guard) ·
- Education: Lanier High School (2005)
- Spouse: Juanika Ellis (m. 2010)
- Height: 91 m
- Children: Myla Jai Ellis
High School Career
At Lanier High School, Ellis was a dominant force on the court. In his senior year (2004–05), he averaged 38.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 6.9 assists, and 4.5 steals per game, leading Lanier to a 35–2 record and a No. 3 national ranking in the FAB 50. Notable performances included a 65-point game and a 72-point effort—tied for the second-highest in Mississippi state history—as well as a 46-point outing against powerhouse Oak Hill Academy. That season, he was named the 2005 EA SPORTS National Player of the Year and shared Parade Player of the Year honors with Greg Oden.
Over his four-year high school career, Ellis led Lanier to a 129–16 overall record, including state championships in 2002 and 2005 and runner-up finishes in 2003 and 2004. He scored a total of 4,167 points, placing him second all-time in Mississippi history with a career average of 28.7 points per game. Though he initially committed to Mississippi State University, Ellis ultimately chose to declare for the NBA Draft instead.
Early Life and Family Background
Monta Jerome Ellis was born on October 26, 1985, in Jackson, Mississippi. Raised by his mother, Rosa Ellis, he grew up with two brothers in a household that faced financial struggles. Despite these challenges, Rosa’s determination and guidance helped keep Monta and his siblings grounded and focused. His older brother, Antwain Ellis, played a pivotal role in shaping Monta’s love for basketball, becoming a personal hero and early influence. Basketball became more than a game for Monta—it was a refuge from hardship and a path to a better future. He attended Lanier High School in Jackson, where his exceptional talent began to draw national attention.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
At Lanier High School, Ellis quickly emerged as one of the top high school basketball players in the nation. During his senior year (2004–05), he led his team to its second state title in four years, averaging an astounding 38.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 6.9 assists, and 4.5 steals per game. His standout performances included a 65-point game against Greenwood, which he later topped with 72 points in a rematch—tying the second-highest mark in Mississippi state history. Recognized for his dominance, Ellis was name the 2005 EA SPORTS National Player of the Year and was co-Player of the Year by Parade magazine alongside Greg Oden. Though initially committ to Mississippi State University, Ellis chose to enter the 2005 NBA Draft and was select 40th overall by the Golden State Warriors.
Professional Career and Achievements
Ellis began his NBA career with the Golden State Warriors, quickly gaining recognition for his explosive scoring and speed. In the 2006–07 season, he was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player, signaling his rise in the league. Known for his offensive firepower, Ellis average nearly 25 points per game in multiple seasons and became a consistent scoring leader. In March 2012, he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he continue to excel as a go-to scorer. He later played two seasons each with the Dallas Mavericks and the Indiana Pacers. Over his 12-year NBA career, Ellis scored a total of 14,858 points, averaging 17.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game.
Personal Life and Relationships
Outside of basketball, Monta Ellis is devote to his family. He is married to Juanika Ellis, and together they have three children. The couple prefers to live a relatively private life, focusing on family over the spotlight. In his downtime, Ellis enjoys fishing, a hobby that reflects his appreciation for peace and balance after years of high-pressure competition.
Legacy and Impact
Monta Ellis’s rise from a modest upbringing in Mississippi to NBA prominence serves as an inspiring story of perseverance and talent. Though he was never selected as an All-Star, his influence on the court and connection with fans were undeniable. Known for his relentless drive, quickness, and scoring ability, Ellis left a lasting legacy wherever he play, proving that determination and heart can lead to greatness.
Future Endeavors
In retirement, Ellis has shifted his focus to giving back. He’s express interest in mentoring young athletes and is involved in community outreach programs aimed at supporting underprivileged youth. While he now enjoys a more private life, his contributions to basketball and his efforts to uplift others ensure his legacy continues off the court.
Monta Ellis Net Worth 2025
Monta Ellis’s net worth in 2025 is estimate to be around $136.9 million, bas on his career earnings and contract values. His NBA career earnings through 2024 were report as $103,387,740, with a total contract value of $136,944,581. While he hasn’t played in the NBA for a few years, he continues to receive payments from his contracts.
FAQs
What high school did Monta Ellis attend?
Monta Ellis attended Lanier High School in Jackson, Mississippi, where he became a nationally recognized basketball talent.
How many points did Monta Ellis score in a single high school game?
Ellis scored a remarkable 72 points in one game, tying for the second-highest point total in Mississippi high school basketball history.
Why did Monta Ellis skip college basketball?
Although initially committed to Mississippi State University, Ellis opted to enter the 2005 NBA Draft directly from high school.
What is Monta Ellis known for in the NBA?
Monta Ellis is known for his scoring ability, quickness, and dynamic offensive play, including averaging nearly 25 points per game in multiple seasons.
What does Monta Ellis do after retiring from basketball?
After retirement, Ellis has focused on mentoring young athletes, investing in real estate, and participating in community outreach initiatives.
How many total points did Monta Ellis score in his NBA career?
Over his 12-year NBA career, Monta Ellis scored a total of 14,858 points.