As Alijah Martin’s name becomes more well-known in NBA draft circles, many people want to know about this gifted athlete’s upbringing. Martin’s parents, Tina Martin and Randall Ridley, established a strong athletic heritage for their family, which is based in Summit, Mississippi.

Tina Martin and Randall Ridley: The Support System
Alijah Martin’s parents are both proud Americans, Tina Martin and Randall Ridley. Although there isn’t much information about his father, Randall Ridley, Alijah’s mother, Tina Martin, has been a pillar of support and influence throughout his basketball career.
Tina, who teaches middle school and coaches kids’ basketball, is lovingly called “Mama Martin” by many involved with the Florida Gators program, demonstrating her strong bond with the game.
Alijah’s birth precedes Tina Martin’s basketball involvement. “I was a basketball coach when Martin was born, so he had a basketball in his hands before he could walk,” she recounted in a 2023 interview.
Alijah’s enthusiasm and talent were certainly fostered from an early age by this early exposure to the game and her active teaching role. At home, she created a competitive atmosphere where Alijah frequently played against his older sister, Alayshia Martin, and gained essential life lessons about tenacity.
A Family of Athletes
Alijah comes from a family that has a lot of athletes. Alayshia Martin, his sister, was a track and field star, showcasing the family’s wide range of athletic abilities. Jaylen Martin, his younger brother, played basketball locally, continuing Alijah’s legacy.
This family’s participation in sports demonstrates the spirit of competition and the support their parents fostered in them. Although specifics regarding Tina and Randall’s athletic endeavors are kept confidential, it is evident that their support helped their kids succeed in a variety of sports.
Alijah grew up in Summit, a small Mississippi town with a strong sports culture, where he was surrounded by people who encouraged his developing skills. This setting and his parents’ unfailing support created an ideal atmosphere for his athletic growth.
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Alijah’s mother, Tina Martin, has been there for him at every stage of his career, from playing basketball in youth leagues to his current status as a top NBA draft prospect.
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