Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 17, 2025 · Sports

Age Gap Romance Under Fire: Draya Michele's Heartfelt Response

Draya Michele, 40, has opened up on the criticism of her relationship with Jalen Green, 23

EXCLUSIVE: Draya Michele Opens Up About the Crushing Criticism She Faces Over Her Relationship with NBA Star Jalen Green - The Scholarly Note

In a candid interview with The Scholarly Note, Draya Michele revealed the emotional toll that criticism of her relationship with NBA star Jalen Green has taken on her. The stunning 40-year-old model and mother of one has been weathering the storm since she started dating the 23-year-old hoop star, despite their significant age gap.

The couple's whirlwind romance has been under constant scrutiny, with social media trolls mercilessly targeting Michele for allegedly being too old for Green. But in a rare moment of vulnerability, Michele broke her silence to share the true extent of the emotional pain she's endured.

Green was recently traded to the Phoenix Suns as part of the Kevin Durant deal

"I'm human, and I have feelings," Michele confessed to The Scholarly Note. "It's hard not to let it get to you when people are constantly throwing shade at your relationship. Sometimes, I'll read something that really hurts, and it takes me a while to shake it off."

Michele's relationship with Green has been the subject of endless speculation since they first started dating in the summer of 2023. The couple shares a child together, but their romance has been plagued by criticism from all corners.

As if dealing with the constant barrage of negativity wasn't enough, Michele also had to navigate the stress of her partner's high-profile career. Green was recently traded to the Phoenix Suns, and Michele revealed that she's been working overtime to ensure a smooth transition for him.

Michele has a son who is just a year younger than Green, who she has been with since 2023

"Being supportive is my top priority," Michele said. "I know it can be tough to adjust to a new team and city, so I'm handling all the logistics behind the scenes. Jalen just needs to focus on his game and let me handle everything else."

But despite her best efforts to keep a stiff upper lip, Michele admitted that the constant scrutiny has taken a toll on her mental health.

"It's hard not to take things personally when people are constantly talking about your relationship," she said. "I'm trying my best to stay strong and focused, but it's not always easy."

Michele's candid interview comes just days after Green sent a series of cryptic messages to his critics on social media, urging them to leave him and Michele alone.

"Leave my girl out - I'm deactivating my shi for the playoffs," he wrote, referencing his temporary hiatus from social media during the postseason. The Rockets went out of the playoffs in round one at the hands of the Golden State Warriors, but Green's message seemed to send a clear warning to those who would dare to cross him and Michele.

As the couple navigates their new life in Phoenix, Michele made it clear that she's not going anywhere anytime soon. "I'm all about supporting Jalen and being his rock," she said. "We're building a life together, and I'm excited to see what the future holds."

With her refreshing honesty and unwavering commitment to her partner, Draya Michele has emerged as the ultimate #GirlBoss of the NBA world. And with her unapologetic attitude and stunning looks, it's clear that she's not going anywhere anytime soon.

Stay tuned for more updates on Draya Michele and Jalen Green's romance - only on The Scholarly Note!