Paul Pierce Confirms Paternity Amid $30K Child Support Demand

Paul Pierce, the former NBA star, has acknowledged paternity of a child involved in a court dispute and is now seeking joint custody. This development follows a lawsuit filed by Los Angeles event planner Princess Santiago.

Details of the Case

Pierce has requested joint legal and physical custody of his two-month-old son, King Rafael Santiago Pierce. This comes after a January lawsuit where Santiago sought genetic testing to confirm that Pierce was the child's father.

Santiago initially requested nearly $30,000 per month in child support and sole custody. She also asked for over $18,000 to cover half of her pregnancy and post-birth expenses, along with $100,000 in legal fees.

Reactions and Statements

Santiago expressed skepticism about Pierce’s timing for requesting custody, noting she faced the pregnancy without his support. She commented on this development following the confirmation of his paternity through a DNA test.

She explained her decision to take legal action as necessary for accountability and her child’s welfare, despite making attempts to settle privately.

Financial Context

The lawsuit highlights Pierce’s substantial earnings during his basketball career, alleging he earned up to $203 million in salary. It also mentions previous statements by Pierce about endorsement income exceeding his NBA wages.

A final ruling on custody and support has yet to be made.