Monta Ellis’ wife Juanika Amos Ellis has no problem dealing with adversity. Six years his senior, Juanika is a Memphis police officer and has dealt with plenty trouble both on the job and off.
Juanika and Monta met in their hometown of Memphis back in 2006 and were married by 2010. Shortly before meeting Juanika, Monta was drafted 40th by the Golden State Warriors and ended up being one of those players that explodes with talent after learning the ropes. He was named most improved player in 2007 and by 2008 had earned a $66 million contract with the Warriors, making him their highest paid player. Juanika and Monta were living the dream, and they had two children following Monta’s big deal. Then came adversity…
Monta was sued for sexual herassment in December of 2011 by a team employee named Erika Ross Smith. She worked for the Warriors’ community relations department. Ellis allegedly sent dozens of explicit text messages and pictures to her. As you might imagine, this was bad news for Mr. Ellis. According to Sporting News, the case was settled out of court six months later, which essentially means Ellis paid her a tidy sum of money to stand down. To the left a large cash payout, and to the right a very disappointed police officer whom you just happen to be married to. Sigh…time to hit the court, Monta!
