SHE’S BEEN MY ROCK: Cleveland Cleavers Star Dovan Mitchell Stuns Fans with Surprise Engagement to Long-Time Girlfriend After Years of Private Romance
In a heartwarming twist that no one saw coming, Cleveland Cleavers star Dovan Mitchell has taken his fans by storm—not with a buzzer-beating three-pointer or a gravity-defying dunk, but with a life-changing moment off the court. After years of keeping his personal life closely guarded, the NBA standout shocked the sports world this weekend by announcing his engagement to his long-time girlfriend, Maya Bennett.
The reveal came via an Instagram post that has since gone viral, showing a beaming Mitchell on one knee, surrounded by candles and rose petals on a lakeside dock in Lake Erie. Maya, dressed in a flowing white sundress, appeared visibly emotional in the series of photos, culminating in a close-up of the sparkling diamond ring and the caption: “She’s been my rock since day one. Here’s to forever. 💍❤️ #Engaged #LoveWins.”
Years of Quiet Devotion
Despite Mitchell’s high-profile status as one of the most dynamic guards in the league, little has been known about his relationship with Maya. While many athletes in the spotlight often share glimpses of their love lives, Mitchell has taken a decidedly different approach. Known for his laser focus on basketball and deep sense of privacy, he has rarely spoken about his personal relationships in interviews or on social media.
Insiders close to the couple, however, describe their romance as grounded, sincere, and refreshingly drama-free. “Maya has been with him since before he made it big,” says a source close to the Cleavers organization. “She’s been there through college ball, the draft, the injuries, the trade rumors—you name it. She’s never sought the spotlight, but she’s always been his number one supporter.”
The couple reportedly met during Mitchell’s sophomore year at Louisville, where Maya was pursuing a degree in psychology. While their paths diverged professionally—Mitchell to the NBA and Maya to clinical research—the two remained inseparable through long-distance stretches, career highs, and the intense demands of life in professional sports.
A Private Life, a Public Declaration
Mitchell’s decision to go public with such a personal moment seems to signal a shift—not only in his relationship but perhaps in how he wants to connect with his fans. “He’s always been a ‘lead by example’ kind of guy,” says ESPN analyst Chris Delaney. “To see him open up like this shows he’s entering a new chapter, not just in his love life, but maybe in how he sees his legacy.”
Indeed, the announcement has been met with an outpouring of support from fellow athletes, fans, and even celebrities. Cleavers teammate Jordan Hayes commented, “About time, bro! Congrats to you both 🙌🏽,” while WNBA star Alina Rowe wrote, “This is the kind of love story we need in 2025! Beautiful.”
Engagement Amid a Breakout Year
The engagement comes during what many are calling a breakout season for Mitchell. After a rocky first year with the Cleavers, the 29-year-old guard has found his rhythm, averaging 24.7 points per game and leading the team into serious playoff contention. Off the court, he’s been increasingly involved in community work, launching the Mitchell Mentorship Foundation earlier this year, aimed at providing resources for underprivileged youth in Cleveland and his hometown of Elmsford, New York.
Those close to him say Maya has played a key role in shaping that focus. “She keeps him grounded,” says coach Eldon Reese. “He’s always been a competitor, but with her, you see a man who’s also thinking about his future beyond basketball.”
What’s Next for the Couple?
No official wedding date has been announced, but sources say the couple is planning an intimate ceremony sometime in 2026, likely after the NBA season wraps up. In the meantime, fans can expect Mitchell to remain locked in on the court—though perhaps with an extra glow of happiness now that he’s taken this major step in his personal life.
As the sports world buzzes about playoff chances, MVP talk, and trade deadlines, Dovan Mitchell’s surprise engagement reminds us that sometimes the biggest wins happen away from the arena lights.
And for the man who’s always let his game do the talking, this rare glimpse into his heart has made the biggest impression of all.
