Bubba Paris

Athleticism runs deep in the Paris family. William “Bubba” Paris, a dominant force in the trenches during his NFL days, set a high bar not only for himself but also for future generations. A Super Bowl champion and standout offensive tackle, Paris’s legacy continues through his children, most notably his twin daughters, Courtney and Ashley, who both starred in the WNBA. That same strength, discipline, and perseverance that powered Paris on the football field now echoes in the achievements of his family.

Paris’s path to football greatness began in Louisville, Kentucky, where he attended DeSales High School and quickly emerged as a standout athlete. His combination of size, agility, and intelligence made him one of the top recruits in the country. He went on to play college football at the University of Michigan, where he was a three-year starter and earned First-Team All-Big Ten honors as a senior. His play in Ann Arbor established him as one of the premier offensive linemen in the country.

Selected in the second round of the 1982 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers, Paris quickly made his mark as an integral part of one of the most iconic dynasties in football history. Over his eight seasons with the 49ers, he played in 130 regular season games and 16 playoff contests, starting in three Super Bowl victories (XIX, XXIII, and XXIV). His powerful blocking and protection on the left side helped pave the way for legends like Joe Montana and Roger Craig. Known for his dependability and quiet leadership, Paris was a consistent force on an offensive line that dominated some of the toughest defenses of the era.

After leaving San Francisco, Paris had short stints with the Indianapolis Colts and Detroit Lions before retiring from the NFL. But while his days in pads ended, his passion for leadership, motivation, and service was just getting started.

In the years since his retirement, Paris has become a popular motivational speaker, minister, and television analyst. He has spoken across the country, drawing from his own experiences in football and life to inspire audiences of all ages. His deep faith and commitment to uplifting others has shaped his post-NFL journey as much as his athletic achievements ever did.

Family remains at the heart of Paris’s story. Alongside his wife, Cynthia, he has raised a family deeply rooted in both faith and athletic excellence. In addition to Courtney and Ashley’s professional basketball careers, the Paris household has long been a space where values of discipline, hard work, and compassion are lived out daily. From blocking for Hall of Famers to mentoring future leaders, Bubba Paris has left an indelible mark.

Image licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Biography by Grace Frericks.