Hall of Fame basketball star Paul Pierce is pushing back against a massive monthly child support request from his ex, Princess Santiago, arguing that the requested $30,000-per-month figure is excessive given his current financial trajectory.
According to legal documents obtained by TMZ, the 48-year-old former Boston Celtics star filed court papers formally opposing Santiago’s plea for nearly $30,000 in monthly child support, along with $100,000 in legal fees.
In his opposition filing, Pierce detailed his changing financial realities post-NBA, pointing out that his active playing career ended in 2017 and his full-time broadcast career with Fox Sports 1 wrapped up.
“I live a quiet and stable life with my girlfriend. I do not drink to excess.” — Paul Pierce in court filings
Dropping Revenue Streams: Pierce revealed that while his reported 2025 income was around $1.5 million, guaranteed payments from his Fox Sports contract end in September 2026—reducing his earnings by nearly half.
Existing Family Commitments: The 10-time NBA All-Star highlighted that he already pays $20,000 a month in spousal support and $24,000 in child support for his four other children.
Counter-Proposal: Rather than $30,000, Pierce proposed paying $4,145 per month for their newborn son, King, while requesting joint legal and physical custody.
Financial Standing: Pierce also noted that Santiago earns over $400,000 annually as an event planner and is not operating with limited resources.
While Pierce confirmed he has been voluntarily sending $5,000 per month in support while seeking joint custody, the legal dispute over custody rights and monthly financial obligations remains pending before the court.
