The primary influence on Pop Isaacs’ passion and interest in basketball was his father. The youngest of seven children, Pop Isaacs has always been encouraged by his parents and siblings in his love for playing basketball. Born on August 24, 2003, he started playing the sport at a young age.
During his final year at Coronado High School, Isaacs achieved an average of 23 points and 5 rebounds per game. He also received the Southern Nevada Offensive Player of the Year award and Tarkanian Classic First-Team honors. Additionally, he secured a gold medal with the USA Basketball U16 squad before joining Texas Tech in the 2022-23 season. Currently, he is playing guard for the Texas Tech men’s basketball team and was honored on the Big 12 All-Freshman Team.
Who Are Pop Isaacs’ Parents?
Pop Isaacs, a 20-year-old point guard, is the son of Rick Isaacs and Jennifer Kelly. His father, Richard Isaacs Sr., used to teach basketball and manage one of Los Angeles’ most successful AAU teams. The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) is a prominent sporting organization in the USA, representing amateur athletes in various sports. These programs offer young athletes opportunities to compete at a higher level and gain exposure to college scouts.
Isaacs learned the game from his father, who took him to AAU practices, making basketball a part of his daily routine. He has expressed gratitude for his father’s influence and support. Pop Isaacs’ mother, Jennifer Kelly, is also a qualified medical assistant, and an ardent supporter of the basketball star. She frequently updates her followers on her son’s sporting achievements. Pop has four siblings – three brothers and a sister: Tremaine Tatum, Jermaine Tatum, Deric Isaacs, and Phoenix Perry.
Why Was Pop Named the Basketball Player’s Name?
While the name Pop Isaacs is more commonly known, his actual name is Richard Corey Isaacs. His parents and siblings have always called him Pop or Pop Pop. According to his father, the nickname originated when Pop was about 2 years old, constantly dribbling little basketballs in the kitchen. His father started calling him “Pop Pop”, and the nickname stuck with him.
As he embarked on his professional career, everyone, including his friends, began calling him Pop Pop. Therefore, he chose to go by the name Pop Isaacs instead of Richard. According to Pop, only his parents use his given name these days. Despite other alternative names like Little Pop Pop, Rickey, and Rick Jr. being suggested or used, he stuck with being called Pop.
