Andre Murillo is widely recognized as the husband of Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Tori Kelly, but he has carved out his own distinct path as a professional basketball player and athlete. Born in Bremerhaven, Germany, on May 18, 1990, to a German mother and an American serviceman father, Murillo spent his early years moving around before eventually settling in Southern California. Standing at six feet and seven inches, his athletic journey spans high school standouts, collegiate dominance, and professional stints overseas in Europe.
Early Life and Basketball Beginnings
Growing up with a deep passion for sports, Murillo attended El Toro High School in Lake Forest, California, where he starred on the varsity basketball team. His high school performance earned him league MVP honors and attention from collegiate scouts.
After graduating from high school in 2008, Murillo began his college basketball career at Concordia University Irvine before transferring to Biola University. At Biola, he established himself as a dominant power forward. During his standout 2013-2014 senior season, he averaged 15.8 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, earning honors as an NAIA All-American Honorable Mention and a Capital One Academic All-American.
Professional Basketball Career Overseas
Following his collegiate success, Murillo took his talents abroad to pursue a professional career in Europe. He signed with the Hamburg Towers in the German ProA league before later playing for the Rostock Seawolves in the ProB division.
Playing overseas presented unique physical challenges, including a series of injuries that tested his resilience. Despite setbacks, Murillo remained a formidable presence on the court as a power forward known for his high-energy rebounding and scoring inside the paint. His professional basketball career eventually wound down as he transitioned toward other personal and professional ventures.
Relationship and Marriage to Tori Kelly
Murillo and Tori Kelly began dating quietly, keeping much of their relationship out of the intense spotlight that often surrounds pop stars. In September 2017, Kelly announced their engagement on social media with a simple yet striking black-and-white photo showing off her ring.
The couple tied the knot in a private, intimate ceremony in May 2018. Tori Kelly has often spoken about how grounded their relationship is, frequently crediting her husband for his unwavering support during her rise in the music industry and her health battles, including a scary hospitalization for blood clots in 2023. The couple lives a relatively private life in California, balancing their respective careers and creative pursuits. In July 2025, they announced they were expecting their first child, and they welcomed their baby boy, Zayden Michael Murillo, in November 2025.
Life Outside of Basketball
Beyond sports and marriage, Murillo is known for his strong faith and community involvement. During his college years at Biola University, he majored in biblical studies with a stated goal of entering ministry. He frequently shares snippets of his personal life, reflections, and fitness routines on social media, maintaining a close bond with his family, including his older brother Terrence.
While he initially gained public awareness through his association with Tori Kelly, Murillo has built a life defined by athletic achievement, resilience through injuries, and a dedicated family focus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Andre Murillo's background in basketball?
He played college basketball at Biola University where he was an All-American, later playing professionally in Germany for teams like the Hamburg Towers and Rostock Seawolves.
When did Andre Murillo and Tori Kelly get married?
The couple got married in an intimate ceremony in May 2018 after announcing their engagement in late 2017.
Where was Andre Murillo born?
He was born in Bremerhaven, Germany, on May 18, 1990, before moving to the United States during his youth.
Do Andre Murillo and Tori Kelly have children?
Yes, they welcomed their first child, a son named Zayden, in November 2025 after announcing the pregnancy earlier that year.
