Memphis Grizzlies star Chandler Parsons and UFC Octagon girl Arianny Celeste have been quietly dating, according to TMZ Sports. The website has spotted Parsons and Celeste together outside Craig’s restaurant in Los Angeles, with the basketball star wearing sweatpants and carrying a backpack while the Octagon girl was in her usual sexy self.
In the past, Parsons dated actress Bella Thorne and the two were seen kissing during a recent trip to Mexico. However, the two claimed that they’re just friends. Thorne was reported to be dating Jordan Clarkson of the Los Angeles Lakers.
When asked about it, Parsons said he’s happy for them. Parsons also dated model Hailey Baldwin, daughter of actor Stephen Baldwin, and German model Toni Garrn. Celeste, for his part, dated Blink 182 drummer Travis Barker in 2015 and UFC fighter Josh Burkman.
Parsons signed $94 million deal with Grizzlies
Last season, Parsons signed a four-year, $94 million deal with the Grizzlies but he played just 34 games after suffering a left knee injury in December. He underwent a season-ending surgery in March to repair a partial tear of the medial meniscus in his left knee. The Grizzlies signed Parsons despite questions about his right knee, which was surgically repaired twice over the past three years.
In a recent interview with the Memphis Commercial Appeal, Parsons said he’s finished with the rehabilitation part, which took place in Los Angeles where he also resides during the off-season. “This is the best I’ve felt in a really long time,” said Grizzlies forward, who’s been doing Yoga, Pilates and boxing classes while waiting to be cleared for full basketball activity.
With his current preparation, Parsons said he’s lining himself up for the Most Improved Player award next season.
Parsons urges Grizzlies fans to stick with him
Parsons also called on Grizzlies fans to stick with him, saying he’s committed to a four-year deal and he will come back strong next season. In his last appearance at FedEx Forum, he was booed by fans for not living up to expectations.
Last season, the 28-year-old Parsons averaged just 6.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 19.9 minutes of action. His minutes were restricted because he just recently came from a knee surgery.
A 38th pick by Houston in the 2011 Draft, Parsons played three seasons with the Rockets before he signed a three-year, $46.1 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks. After just two seasons, he opted out of the final year of his deal with Dallas and signed a four-year, $94.5 million maximum contract with the Grizzlies.
