Meaning Behind Walter Clayton Jr’s Heartbreaking Social Media Bio

Walter Clayton Jr. is having the kind of March that players dream of. 

The senior guard has been sensational, leading the Florida Gators to the national title game against Houston. 

But behind his electric play and clutch performances lies a deeply personal motivation — one that’s captured in just two words on his Instagram bio: “RipGranda.”

For Clayton, this tribute is far more than a hashtag. It’s a memorial to his late grandfather, who passed away in 2018 while Clayton was still in high school. 

Long before the bright lights of March Madness, Clayton shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter). 

“turnt the city up ! . RIP Granda . words can’t even explain how much i miss you and tonight was for you and i know you was watching.”

That night, as a high school standout, he had already begun carving out his path — but it was his grandfather's words that stuck with him. 

In 2021, Clayton posted another message.

“my granda used to tell me all the time that people hate greatness, i finally understand what he was saying now.”

While Clayton has kept many personal details about his grandfather private — including his name — it’s clear the bond ran deep. 

Now, every shot he takes, every point he scores, carries a piece of that memory.