Professional basketball player Monta Ellis was born on October 26, 1985 in Jackson, Mississippi, USA. She attended Lanier High School in Jackson, and was named Parade Magazine High School Player of the Year in 2005 along with Greg Oden, as well as a USA Today All-American. Originally, he had a verbal commitment to Mississippi State University, finally opting for the NBA in 2005.

After graduating from Lanier High, Ellis was drafted by the Golden State Warriors, 40th overall, during the second round of the 2005 NBA Draft. He stayed with the team until 2012. He was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks on March 13, 2012 along with Ekpe Udoh and Kwame Brown in exchange for Andrew Bogut and Stephen Jackson. More than a year later, on July 23, 2013, he signed with the Dallas Mavericks.

Monta Ellis is known for his spectacular speed which earned him the nickname “The Mississippi Missile.” He is also a prolific scorer who is capable of making difficult shots and taking over games in high-pressure situations. Among his career highlights and awards included the Mr. Basketball USA in 2005 and NBA Most Improved Player in 2007.