Sheryl Swoopes’ Husband: A Look at Her Personal and Family Life
When people ask about Sheryl Swoopes’ husband, they are looking into the personal side of one of the greatest athletes in women’s basketball history. Swoopes, often called the “female Michael Jordan,” is a three-time WNBA MVP, a four-time WNBA champion, and a three-time Olympic gold medalist. With such a legendary career, fans have always been curious about the woman behind the awards—and particularly about her relationships, marriages, and family life. Today, Swoopes is married to Chris Unclesho, a longtime friend with whom she built a loving partnership after years of personal growth and change.
Who Is Sheryl Swoopes?
Sheryl Swoopes was born on March 25, 1971, in Brownfield, Texas. She became a basketball prodigy at Texas Tech University, where she led the Lady Raiders to the 1993 NCAA championship, scoring an astonishing 47 points in the title game. Later, she made history as the first player signed to the newly formed WNBA in 1997, joining the Houston Comets.
Over her professional career, she earned three league MVP titles, won four championships, and became one of the most respected players in women’s sports. She also represented the United States internationally, taking home three Olympic gold medals. Beyond her athletic achievements, she has served as a coach and mentor, continuing to inspire younger generations.
Her fame, however, has always made fans equally curious about her personal life—including her marriages, relationships, and family.
Sheryl Swoopes’ First Marriage to Eric Jackson
Before her rise to international stardom, Swoopes married Eric Jackson in 1995. The marriage lasted until 1999, but during that time, they welcomed a son, Jordan Eric Jackson, born in 1997. Becoming a mother while excelling in the newly formed WNBA was one of Swoopes’ defining life experiences.
Although her marriage to Eric Jackson ended, their son remained the focus of her personal life, and she balanced motherhood with the pressures of professional athletics. Jordan has since grown up to pursue his own path, with basketball remaining a connection between him and his mother.
Relationships After Divorce
Following her divorce, Swoopes entered into new relationships that reflected her openness and evolving sense of self. In 2005, she made headlines when she publicly came out as gay, becoming one of the first active professional basketball players to do so. She was in a relationship with Alisa Scott, a former assistant coach for the Houston Comets, and the two were engaged for a period of time.
This chapter of her life was significant not just for Swoopes personally, but also culturally. Her honesty and visibility challenged stereotypes and inspired others in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly within sports, where conversations about sexuality were often avoided.
However, Swoopes and Scott eventually separated in 2011, closing an important chapter in her personal life.
Marriage to Chris Unclesho
Later in 2011, Sheryl Swoopes got engaged to Chris Unclesho, a longtime male friend. Their relationship surprised some fans, given her earlier statements and relationships, but Swoopes has always emphasized that she values love and connection above labels. For her, being true to herself meant embracing relationships authentically, regardless of outside expectations.
After a long engagement, the couple married on July 21, 2017. Their marriage represents a new stage of stability and companionship in her personal life. Chris Unclesho has supported her through various professional transitions, including her roles in coaching and public speaking, as well as her ongoing influence as a WNBA legend.
Today, Sheryl Swoopes and Chris Unclesho maintain a life that blends family, personal happiness, and her continued involvement in basketball.
Sheryl Swoopes Today
Now in her fifties, Swoopes continues to inspire both as a sports legend and as someone who has lived her personal life openly. She remains dedicated to her son Jordan, who is now an adult, and to her husband Chris. She has also continued to share her experiences as a coach and mentor, proving that her legacy extends far beyond her playing days.
Her personal journey—from her first marriage, to her public coming out, to her eventual marriage to Chris Unclesho—shows that life is complex, and authenticity is key. She has always been willing to live on her own terms, and that honesty has made her an admired figure both on and off the court.
What Fans Can Learn From Sheryl Swoopes’ Journey
Sheryl Swoopes’ story teaches us several important lessons. First, it shows the importance of resilience. She faced challenges in both her professional and personal life but always found ways to move forward. Second, her openness about identity and relationships highlights the importance of authenticity, even when it defies public expectations. Finally, her marriage to Chris Unclesho demonstrates that love and companionship can take unexpected forms, and happiness often comes from embracing change.
Her journey reflects a life lived fully—balancing athletic greatness, motherhood, personal discovery, and lasting partnership.
Featured Image Source: britannica.com
