J. J. Barea Biography: Career, Age, Wife, Net Worth, Height, Children, NBA Championship

José Juan Barea Mora, professionally known as J. J. Barea, is a revered Puerto Rican basketball coach and former professional player whose tenacity and skill left an indelible mark on the NBA.

Best known for his pivotal role with the Dallas Mavericks, where he won an NBA championship in 2011, Barea’s undersized yet dynamic playing style earned him a devoted following.

Profile

• Full Name: José Juan Barea Mora
• Stage Name: J. J. Barea
• Born: 26, June 1984
• Age: 41 years old
• Birthplace: Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
• Nationality: Puerto Rican
• Occupation: Basketball Coach, Former Professional Basketball Player
• Height: 1.78m
• Parents: Marta Mora and Jaime Barea
• Siblings: Jamie J. Barea, Jason J. Barea
• Spouse: Viviana Ortiz (m. 2016)
• Children: Paulina Barea Ortiz, José Juan Barea Ortiz
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $20 million

Early Life and Education

José Juan Barea Mora was born on June 26, 1984, in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, to Marta Mora and Jaime Barea.

He grew up alongside his brothers, Jamie J. Barea and Jason J. Barea, in a tight-knit family that nurtured his love for basketball.

Barea attended Academia de la Inmaculada Concepción in Puerto Rico before transferring to Miami Christian School in Florida, where he honed his skills.

His Puerto Rican heritage defines his identity, while his religious beliefs remain private.

Career

J. J. Barea began his professional career after going undrafted in 2006, signing with the Dallas Mavericks and quickly proving his worth as a scrappy point guard.

His breakout came during the Mavericks’ 2011 NBA championship run, where his quickness and clutch play off the bench were instrumental in defeating the Miami Heat.

Over 14 NBA seasons, primarily with the Mavericks and a stint with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Barea averaged 8.9 points and 3.9 assists, earning respect for his relentless drive despite his 5’10” stature.

After retiring in 2020, Barea returned to Puerto Rico to play and coach in the Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) league, leading teams like the Cangrejeros de Santurce as a player-coach.

In 2024, he took the helm as head coach of the Mets de Guaynabo, guiding them to the BSN semifinals in 2024 and continuing into 2025.

His coaching acumen, rooted in his on-court experience, led to his appointment as an assistant coach with the Denver Nuggets in 2025, marking a significant step in his coaching career.

Barea’s influence extends beyond the court, as he represents Puerto Rico with pride in international competitions, including the Olympics and FIBA World Championships.

His transition to coaching reflects his deep basketball knowledge and mentorship, shaping young players in both Puerto Rico and the NBA.

His legacy as a champion and leader continues to inspire fans and aspiring athletes across the globe.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @jjbareita
• Facebook Handle: JJ Barea
• Twitter Handle: @jjbarea

Personal Life

J. J. Barea married Puerto Rican actress and model Viviana Ortiz in 2016, and the couple shares two children, Paulina Barea Ortiz and José Juan Barea Ortiz.

They maintain a strong family bond, often sharing moments of their life in Puerto Rico and Dallas on social media.

Barea is deeply connected to his Puerto Rican roots, supporting community initiatives like youth basketball camps and disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Maria.

Net Worth

J. J. Barea holds an estimated net worth of $20 million, amassed through his 14-year NBA career, including earnings from his Dallas Mavericks contracts and endorsements with brands like Nike.

Additional income stems from his playing and coaching roles in Puerto Rico’s BSN league, as well as his new position with the Denver Nuggets.