Love Island 7 Star And California State Uni Basketball Pro Pepe Garcia Shares Multiple Ethnicity, Thanks To His Parents

Jose was just a toddler before he moved to the USA with his parents.

July 23, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on July 22, 2026

Pepe Garcia, a former basketball player at California State University, shares a mix of three ethnicities from his parents. The Love Island star’s father, José Yáñez García, is of Spanish and Cuban descent, while his mother, Erika Gonzalez, is Mexican-American.

Jose “Pepe” Gracia Gonzalez, aka Pepe Gonzalez, is a former professional basketball player who played at Cal State Fullerton as a 6’3″ point guard.

Pepe took a shock turn from his five-year professional basketball career to other ventures. During his playing career, he played in Spain and Mexico (Fuerza Regia), countries representing both his parents’ ethnic backgrounds.

However, Pepe’s official bio suggests that he only identifies as part of Cuban and Spanish ethnicity, just like his father.

After retiring in 2026, Pepe even launched his Pro Graiz Training brand in Los Angeles, where he had moved at the age of three.

The ex-pro was also the center of attraction after appearing as a contestant on Season 7 (Day 9) of Love Island USA 2026. Pepe finished 4th alongside Iris Kendall, his current girlfriend.

This is how he introduced himself after appearing on the Show. Pepe finished 4th alongside Iris Kendall, his current girlfriend.

“I was born in Madrid, Spain. I moved to L.A. when I was 3 years old. I’m looking for a wife. When I get into the villa, I’m gonna bring some maturity, some passion, and a little bit of Latin love.”

The former California State University basketball player may not have found his wife yet, but he has already found his better half on the show.

Pepe’s Parents Helped Him Get to Where He Is Now

Pepe’s parents have played a significant role in his upbringing by relocating to a different location when he was just three years old, in pursuit of more opportunities.

Thanks to his experience in Sports and as a current fitness influencer, he has also collaborated with many brands, including Gymshark and CELSIUS Energy Drink.

While his bond with his parents and girlfriend remains intact, as shown by his Social Media posts, he currently seems to be focusing on his brand and his clients in the fitness industry.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Pepe dated Gracyn Blackmore and Hannah Fields before eventually dating Iris Kendall in Love Island.
• He has played for several pro basketball teams during his career, including Fuerza Regia de Monterrey, Toros de Nuevo Laredo, and CD Enrique Soler Melilla.

• Check other Articles on

Anish Koirala has loved sports since he was a kid. He grew up playing basketball and soccer, and that passion stayed with him over the years. Today, Anish works as a writer and editor, sharing his knowledge and love for the game through articles and stories. He uses his playing experience to make his writing clear, thoughtful, and fun to read.

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