Updated: January 31, 2026
Elliot Cadeau has quickly become one of the most talked-about point guards in college basketball. From his flashy playmaking at North Carolina to his fresh start with the Michigan Wolverines in the Big Ten, the 21-year-old guard’s journey is full of talent, determination, and strong family support. But behind every great athlete is often an even greater support system. Today, let’s take a closer look at Elliot Cadeau parents — James and Michelle Cadeau — and how their unique backgrounds, athletic passion, and unwavering encouragement shaped one of the sport’s rising stars.
Table of Contents
Who Are Elliot Cadeau’s Parents?
Elliot was born on September 4, 2004, in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in West Orange, New Jersey. His parents, James Cadeau and Michelle Cadeau, bring a beautiful multicultural blend to the family.
- James Cadeau (father): Originally from Haiti, James has always been deeply passionate about sports, particularly tennis. He instilled an athletic mindset in his household, encouraging physical activity and discipline from an early age.
- Michelle Cadeau (mother): Hailing from Malmö (or the Skåne region) in Sweden, Michelle moved to the United States and has been a vocal, active presence in her son’s career. She’s known for her social media engagement, offering recruiting advice to other families and fiercely supporting Elliot through every twist and turn.
This Haitian-Swedish-American mix gives Elliot dual citizenship (U.S. and Swedish) and a rich cultural heritage that he’s embraced, even representing Sweden on the international stage with their national team.
The Athletic Roots That Shaped Elliot
The Cadeau family is undeniably sporty, and it’s no coincidence that Elliot gravitated toward basketball. His father’s love for tennis created an environment where competition and hard work were everyday values. Elliot’s older brother, Justin Cadeau, carries on the tennis tradition, playing college tennis for the Howard Bison.
Michelle has been especially hands-on. She’s shared stories about “bribing” a young Elliot with new headphones, a tattoo allowance, and relaxed curfew rules just to convince him to attend Link Academy in Missouri — a move that boosted his recruiting profile and led to his UNC commitment. Her protective yet proud posts on social media show a mom who’s not afraid to speak up, whether defending her son from critics or celebrating his achievements.
This family dynamic helped Elliot develop into a top prospect: elite vision, quick handles, and leadership on the court.
Key Facts About Elliot Cadeau and His Family
Here’s a quick overview of the essential details that highlight the family’s influence:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Parents | James Cadeau (Haitian origin) and Michelle Cadeau (Swedish origin) |
| Father’s Background | Passionate tennis enthusiast |
| Mother’s Background | From Malmö/Skåne, Sweden; active in son’s recruiting and support |
| Sibling | Older brother Justin (college tennis at Howard University) |
| Elliot’s Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York |
| Raised In | West Orange, New Jersey |
| Dual Citizenship | United States and Sweden |
| International Play | Represents Sweden nationally |
| College Journey | UNC (2023–2025), transferred to Michigan Wolverines (2025–present) |
These elements show how a supportive, diverse family foundation can fuel big dreams in sports.
How the Cadeau Family Navigated Challenges and Transitions
Elliot’s path hasn’t been without hurdles. After a solid freshman year at UNC and a strong sophomore season (averaging around 9.4 points and 6.2 assists per game), he entered the transfer portal in 2025. Michelle stepped in publicly to clarify rumors, emphasizing that the decision was about fit and growth, not NIL demands. She expressed gratitude for the UNC experience while excitedly looking ahead to Michigan: “He gave it everything he had for two years… Michigan, we can’t wait to meet you!!! GO BLUE!!!”
Her transparency and positivity reflect the family’s resilience. Through reclassification debates, recruiting noise, and portal drama, James and Michelle have remained Elliot’s biggest advocates, helping him stay focused on development and opportunity.
Conclusion: A Family Foundation Built for Success
Elliot Cadeau’s story is proof that talent alone doesn’t get you to the top — it takes a dedicated support network. James and Michelle Cadeau provided not just love and guidance but also cultural richness, athletic inspiration, and fearless encouragement. From Haitian and Swedish roots to the bright lights of college basketball, this family has helped shape a guard who’s exciting to watch and even more inspiring off the court.
As Elliot continues his journey with Michigan, one thing is clear: the values his parents instilled — hard work, resilience, and family first — will keep propelling him forward. Whether you’re a basketball fan or just appreciate great parent-athlete stories, the Cadeau family is one worth celebrating.