In the world of NBA fandom, the spotlight often shines brightest on the players themselves—their stats, their wins, and their multi-million dollar contracts. But behind some of these athletes are equally compelling stories of resilience, ambition, and quiet strength. One such story belongs to Toriah Lachell, a name that frequently pops up in conversations about Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum. While she is widely recognized as the mother of Tatum’s adorable firstborn son, Jayson “Deuce” Christopher Tatum Jr., Toriah Lachell is far more than just an “ex-girlfriend” or a “baby mama.” She is a certified professional hairstylist, a thriving entrepreneur, and a dedicated mother who has meticulously carved out her own identity.
Living in the shadow of an NBA star’s fame could easily consume someone, but Toriah Lachell has navigated her unique path with a level of grace and determination that is truly rare. From her early days as a multi-sport athlete in St. Louis to owning a specialized curl salon in Boston, her journey is a masterclass in turning personal passion into professional success. This article dives deep into the life of Toriah Lachell, exploring her roots, her relationship with Tatum, her role as a mother to one of the NBA’s most beloved kids, and how she built a business from the ground up. Whether you know her as Deuce’s mom or a beauty industry leader, her story of empowerment and focus is one that deserves to be told in full.
Early Life and Athletic Roots in St. Louis
To understand the drive of Toriah Lachell, you have to go back to where it all began: St. Louis, Missouri. Born on February 6, 2000, Toriah Lachell grew up in a supportive household with her mother, Julie Gibbs, and her stepfather, John Gibbs . While information about her biological father remains largely out of the public eye, it is clear that her stepfather played a significant role in her upbringing, providing a stable and nurturing environment. Her family ties have remained strong, serving as the foundation for the grounded personality she displays today .
Growing up in the Midwest, Toriah Lachell was far from a wallflower. She attended McCluer North High School in Florissant, Missouri, where she was a standout on the field rather than on the court. While Jayson Tatum was honing his basketball skills across town, Toriah Lachell was making a name for herself in varsity soccer and softball . She played softball for four years, splitting her time between junior varsity and varsity, and was a dedicated soccer player throughout her high school tenure . This athletic background is a fascinating piece of her puzzle; it speaks to her discipline, her ability to work in a team, and her competitive spirit—traits that would later serve her well in the business world. It also highlights a shared love for sports with her former partner, a common ground that likely helped them connect during their teenage years .
The High School Romance with Jayson Tatum
The love story between Toriah Lachell and Jayson Tatum is a classic tale of young love that blossomed in the halls of high school. They met while attending Chaminade College Preparatory School in Creve Coeur, Missouri, a time when Tatum was already making waves as a top basketball prospect and Toriah Lachell was balancing her academics with her athletic pursuits . Their relationship was a private, teenage romance, far removed from the flashing cameras and intense media scrutiny that would later define their lives. For a while, they were just two kids from St. Louis navigating the complexities of young love and planning for the future.
However, life had a different timeline in store for them. As Tatum graduated and headed to Duke University for his freshman year, their relationship faced the strain of distance. The dynamic shifted dramatically in 2017 when Tatum declared for the NBA draft and was selected third overall by the Boston Celtics. It was during this whirlwind transition into professional basketball that Toriah Lachell and Tatum discovered they were expecting their first child . At just 17 years old, Toriah Lachell faced the daunting prospect of becoming a mother, while her high school boyfriend was embarking on a demanding NBA career hundreds of miles away. The pressure proved to be too much for the young couple, and they decided to part ways shortly after the birth of their son .
The Arrival of Deuce: A New Chapter Begins
On December 6, 2017, Toriah Lachell gave birth to Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr., a boy who would affectionately become known to the world as “Deuce” . His arrival marked a pivotal turning point in the lives of both parents. For Toriah Lachell, who was still a teenager, the transition into motherhood was immediate and all-consuming. It required a level of maturity and sacrifice that most people don’t experience until much later in life. Despite the end of their romantic relationship, both Toriah Lachell and Tatum made a conscious and immediate decision to prioritize their son above all else.
This commitment to co-parenting is perhaps the most defining aspect of Toriah Lachell‘s public persona. She made the monumental decision to relocate from her hometown of St. Louis to Boston, Massachusetts, just to ensure that Deuce could be close to his father . This move speaks volumes about her character. She could have stayed in Missouri, but she understood the importance of fostering a strong bond between father and son. Today, their co-parenting arrangement is often cited as a model for separated parents. They attend events together for Deuce, sit courtside at Celtics games, and present a united front, proving that a family doesn’t have to look traditional to be functional and loving . Deuce, now a global celebrity in his own right thanks to his adorable interviews and courtside antics, is a testament to the stable, loving environment created by both Toriah Lachell and Jayson Tatum .
Toriah Lachell’s Professional Path: The Curl Bar Boston
While her role as a mother is a massive part of her identity, Toriah Lachell has always been driven by a desire for professional independence. She had been interested in hair from a young age, experimenting and learning to care for her own natural curls . After high school, she decided to formalize this passion by enrolling in cosmetology school in Boston. She didn’t stop there; she continued to hone her craft, taking specialized classes in haircutting at institutions like Cut It Kinky to perfect her skills .
In early May 2021, Toriah Lachell turned her dream into a reality by opening The Curl Bar Boston, located at 76 Cross Street in Somerville, Massachusetts . This wasn’t just another hair salon; it was a specialized sanctuary dedicated to the celebration and care of curly hair. For years, the beauty industry has been dominated by standards that don’t always cater to natural textures, and Toriah Lachell identified this gap. Her mission is to empower clients to embrace their natural curls and provide them with the knowledge and techniques to maintain healthy hair. The salon offers a range of services, but it’s the educational component that sets it apart. Toriah Lachell developed “The Curl Bar Curl Course: Case Study,” a program designed to teach people how to care for their natural hair at home . This move from stylist to educator solidified her status as an expert in her niche.
Her reputation has grown organically, attracting not just locals but also celebrities. Notably, renowned comedian and former “The Daily Show” host Trevor Noah has been spotted at The Curl Bar, showcasing the wide appeal of Toriah Lachell‘s expertise . Through her business, she has created a community. She uses her platform to inspire confidence, proving that beauty comes in all textures and that taking pride in your appearance is a form of self-care. Her journey from a teen mom to a business owner is a powerful narrative of turning challenges into opportunities.
Public Image and Social Media Presence
In an age where oversharing is the norm, Toriah Lachell takes a refreshingly different approach to her public image. She maintains a presence on social media, primarily through her business Instagram accounts, such as @thecurlbarboston and @hairbytoriahlachell . However, she uses these platforms with intention. Instead of diving into personal drama or the complexities of her past relationship, she focuses on what she knows best: hair. Her feed is a vibrant portfolio of her work, featuring stunning before-and-after photos of clients, tutorials, and updates from the salon.
This strategic use of social media allows her to build her brand authentically while maintaining a healthy boundary around her private life. She occasionally shares glimpses of her life as a mom, giving fans a peek at Deuce, but she steers clear of controversies or public commentary about Jayson Tatum’s personal life . This discipline has earned her respect. It shows that she values her peace and privacy more than fleeting internet fame. In a world where many chase clout through association, Toriah Lachell has built a following based on her talent and work ethic. Her estimated 17,000-plus followers on Instagram are a testament to her genuine influence in the beauty community, proving that you can be connected to a celebrity and still let your own light shine .
Personal Life: Life After Tatum
Since her split from Jayson Tatum in 2017, Toriah Lachell has kept her romantic life incredibly private. As of 2024, she appears to be single and focused entirely on her two main priorities: raising her son and growing her business empire . There is no public record or credible rumor linking her to anyone else, suggesting that she is perfectly content channeling her energy into her career and motherhood. This decision to stay out of the dating pool, at least publicly, reinforces the narrative that she is a woman who knows what she wants and isn’t distracted by the noise of celebrity culture.
In contrast, Jayson Tatum has been linked to several people, most notably British singer Ella Mai. The couple has been rumored to be together since around 2019, and in 2024, they welcomed a child together . Throughout Tatum’s high-profile relationships, Toriah Lachell has remained respectfully silent. She has never engaged in public spats or thrown shade, maintaining a dignified distance that speaks to her emotional maturity. By all accounts, she gets along well with Tatum’s family and supports the evolving dynamic of their blended family for the sake of their son. Her ability to navigate these waters with such grace is a significant reason why she is admired by so many.
Fun Facts: Getting to Know the Real Toriah
Beyond the salon chair and the basketball arena, Toriah Lachell is a relatable young woman with distinct tastes and quirks. For fans who want to know the person behind the business owner, tidbits from her social media and interviews paint a colorful picture. For instance, despite her glamorous profession, she admits she is “SO not a girly girl” . Her favorite color might be pink, but her personality is grounded and real. She also has a playful sweet tooth, confessing that she is “addicted to chocolate cake and will eat it for breakfast with no regrets”—a sentiment that instantly makes her more relatable .
Her taste in music also reveals a lot about her. An R&B lover at heart, she counts Tupac Shakur among her top five rappers, showcasing an appreciation for the poetic and powerful storytelling of 90s hip-hop . These small details help humanize her, reminding us that despite her connection to NBA royalty and her status as a business owner, Toriah Lachell is just a regular millennial navigating life, enjoying good music, and indulging in cake for breakfast when she feels like it. It’s this authenticity that resonates with her followers and clients alike.
Estimated Net Worth and Financial Independence
Discussions about Toriah Lachell often lead to questions about her financial standing. Estimates of her net worth vary across different sources, which is common for entrepreneurs not bound by public contracts. Some outlets estimate her net worth to be around $300,000 to $500,000, while others place it closer to $2 million . Regardless of the exact figure, what is undeniable is that her wealth is self-made. Unlike many associated with high-net-worth athletes, Toriah Lachell does not rely on child support or handouts as her primary income stream.
Her revenue is generated through the success of The Curl Bar Boston, her educational curl courses, and likely social media partnerships and sponsored content related to beauty. She has built a sustainable business model based on recurring services and education. This financial independence is crucial to her story. It means she has the freedom to live in Boston, raise her son on her own terms, and make decisions based on what is best for her family, without financial dependency dictating her choices. It underscores the central theme of her life: she is the architect of her own destiny.
Toriah Lachell: Bio Data at a Glance
For those who appreciate a quick overview, here is a summary of the key details regarding Toriah Lachell‘s life and background:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Toriah LaChell Mimms |
| Date of Birth | February 6, 2000 |
| Age | 26 years old (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | St. Louis, Missouri, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Hairstylist, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | Mother of Deuce, Ex-girlfriend of Jayson Tatum, Owner of The Curl Bar Boston |
| Parents | Mother: Julie Gibbs, Stepfather: John Gibbs |
| Children | Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr. (“Deuce”) |
| Business | The Curl Bar Boston |
| Height | 5′ 8″ (173 cm) |
| Net Worth (Est.) | $500,000 – $2 Million |
Conclusion
The narrative surrounding Toriah Lachell could have easily been a simple footnote in the biography of an NBA star. Instead, she has rewritten it to be a leading story of ambition, resilience, and quiet strength. From the soccer fields of St. Louis to the bustling streets of Boston, Toriah Lachell has navigated the complexities of teen pregnancy, public scrutiny, and single motherhood with a level head and a determined heart. She took the raw materials of her life—a passion for hair, a love for her son, and an unshakeable work ethic—and built something tangible and respected.
Her journey with The Curl Bar Boston is more than just a business success story; it is a testament to the power of focus. While the world was busy watching Jayson Tatum’s career skyrocket, Toriah Lachell was quietly putting in the work, building her skills, and laying the foundation for her own empire. She has mastered the art of co-parenting, setting an example for countless others by showing that respect and cooperation can create a loving environment for a child, even when a romantic relationship doesn’t work out.
In a culture obsessed with celebrity drama, Toriah Lachell stands out for what she doesn’t do: she doesn’t seek attention, she doesn’t air dirty laundry, and she doesn’t let her past define her future. She is a mother, a mentor, and a mogul in the making. As Deuce continues to grow up before our eyes, he will have the unique privilege of looking at his mom and seeing not just a parent, but a blueprint for how to chase a dream with integrity. Toriah Lachell may have entered the public eye by association, but she has remained there by pure determination, proving that you don’t need a jersey to be a star.
Frequently Asked Questions about Toriah Lachell
Who is Toriah Lachell?
Toriah Lachell is an American entrepreneur and certified hairstylist based in Boston, Massachusetts. She is the founder and owner of The Curl Bar Boston, a salon specializing in curly hair care. She is also widely known as the mother of Jayson “Deuce” Tatum Jr., her son with NBA star Jayson Tatum .
How is Toriah Lachell related to Jayson Tatum?
Toriah Lachell is the ex-girlfriend of Jayson Tatum and the mother of his first child, Deuce. The two met in high school in St. Louis and dated before Tatum entered the NBA. Although their romantic relationship ended shortly after their son was born in 2017, they maintain a strong and positive co-parenting relationship .
What does Toriah Lachell do for a living?
Toriah Lachell is a professional hairstylist and business owner. She owns The Curl Bar Boston, a salon in Somerville, Massachusetts, that focuses on styling and caring for natural curly hair. She also created an educational program called “The Curl Bar Curl Course” to teach people how to maintain their curls at home .
How many children does Toriah Lachell have?
Toriah Lachell has one son, Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr., who was born on December 6, 2017. He is affectionately known by his nickname, “Deuce” .
What is Toriah Lachell’s net worth?
While estimates vary, Toriah Lachell has built a respectable net worth through her entrepreneurial ventures. Sources estimate her net worth to be between $300,000 and $2 million, primarily accumulated through her successful salon, educational courses, and social media influence .
Did Toriah Lachell go to college?
While specific details about a four-year degree are not public, Toriah Lachell pursued professional education in her field. After high school, she attended cosmetology school in Boston and took specialized haircutting classes at institutions like Cut It Kinky to become a certified professional .
Where does Toriah Lachell currently live?
Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Toriah Lachell relocated to the Boston, Massachusetts, area shortly after her son was born. She currently resides there to co-parent Deuce, allowing him to be close to his father, Jayson Tatum, who plays for the Boston Celtics .
Is Toriah Lachell on Instagram?
Yes, Toriah Lachell is active on Instagram. She primarily uses the platform to promote her business and showcase her hairstyling work. Her main business handles include @thecurlbarboston and @hairbytoriahlachell .
Who are Toriah Lachell’s parents?
Toriah Lachell was raised by her mother, Julie Gibbs, and her stepfather, John Gibbs. They have been a consistent source of support throughout her life and early journey into motherhood .
What is Toriah Lachell’s ethnicity and height?
Toriah Lachell is of mixed ethnicity and holds American nationality . She stands at a height of 5 feet 8 inches (approximately 173 centimeters) .
