Born on October 8, 1971, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Tavares Montgomery “Monty” Williams has made a significant impact in the world of basketball, both as a player and as a coach. His journey from the courts to the sidelines is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. Beyond his professional achievements, Williams’ personal life has also been marked by profound moments, including the loss of his first wife and his subsequent remarriage to Lisa Keeth.
From Player to Coach
Monty Williams enjoyed a successful nine-season career in the NBA, playing for five different teams: the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, and San Antonio Spurs. His transition from player to coach began in 2005 when he started as a coaching staff intern with the San Antonio Spurs. His coaching career quickly progressed, and he became an assistant coach with the Portland Trail Blazers under Nate McMillan. In 2010, Williams was named the head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, marking a significant milestone in his career.
In 2014, Williams joined the Oklahoma City Thunder as an assistant coach, further honing his coaching skills. His expertise and leadership abilities were recognized, leading to his appointment as the head coach of the Phoenix Suns in 2020. Under his guidance, the Suns experienced a remarkable resurgence, culminating in an NBA Finals appearance in 2021. In 2023, Williams signed one of the richest contracts in NBA history with the Detroit Pistons, solidifying his status as one of the top coaches in the league.
Monty Williams’ Personal Life: Love and Loss
Monty Williams’ personal life has been marked by both joy and tragedy. He was first married to Ingrid Williams in 1995, and the couple shared a loving relationship for over two decades. Together, they had five children: Janna, Lael, Elijah, Micah, and Faith. Tragedy struck in 2016 when Ingrid Williams passed away at the age of 44 due to injuries sustained in a car accident. The loss was devastating for Williams and his family, but they found strength in their faith and each other.
Who is Monty Williams’ Current Wife?
In 2017, Monty Williams found love again and married Lisa Keeth, also known as Lisa Michelle Cliver. Born on May 18, 1980, in Oakland, California, Lisa has built a successful career in sports management. She has worked with Spurs Sports and Entertainment for 15 years, currently holding the position of Senior Manager for Partnership Activation. Lisa’s dedication and expertise have contributed to her estimated net worth of between $3-4 million.
Lisa Keeth: Career and Achievements
Lisa Keeth is a former American volleyball athlete who has made significant strides in her professional career. After earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Angelo State University in 2001, she joined Spurs Sports and Entertainment in 2010. She briefly left the organization but returned in 2016 and has been with them ever since. Lisa’s contributions to the organization have been recognized, and she was awarded the Holland Award in 2001 for her achievements.
The Blended Family
When Lisa Keeth married Monty Williams in August 2017, she became the stepmother to his five children. The blended family has found harmony and happiness together, navigating the complexities of their new family dynamics with love and understanding. Lisa’s relationship with Monty’s children is built on mutual respect and care, and she plays an integral role in their lives.
Lisa Keeth’s Public Profile
Despite her professional achievements, Lisa Keeth maintains a relatively private life. She is active on LinkedIn, where she goes by her own name, but her Instagram account is private, with the handle @lisamwilliams18. Information about her family is not publicly available, reflecting her preference for keeping personal details away from the spotlight.
Monty Williams and Lisa Keeth: A Strong Partnership
Monty Williams and Lisa Keeth have been married for six years, and their partnership is a source of strength for both. They support each other in their respective careers and share a commitment to their family’s well-being. Their journey together is a testament to resilience and the power of love in overcoming life’s challenges.
Conclusion
Monty Williams’ story is one of perseverance, dedication, and resilience. From his days as an NBA player to his successful coaching career, Williams has consistently demonstrated his passion for basketball. His personal life, marked by both profound loss and new beginnings, highlights his strength and the importance of family. Together with Lisa Keeth, Monty Williams continues to inspire both on and off the court, proving that with love and determination, one can overcome any obstacle.