Report: Mavs' Barea soon to be father

This year continues to be a memorable one for Dallas Mavericks guard J.J. Barea. After having his best season as a professional and winning an NBA championship, Barea recently learned that his girlfriend, actress and model Zuleyka Rivera, is pregnant.
 
According to a report from Primerahora.com, which was translated from Spanish by The Dallas Morning News, Rivera, a former Miss Universe, will have to leave production of an acting project called "Passionate Heart" because of the pregnancy.
 
"All this took me by surprise, but I feel very lucky," she wrote to Primerahora.com. "I come from a very close family and I understand that a baby is a blessing. I'm sorry I had to leave this soap opera, it was another opportunity for my growth as an actress and achieve my professional goals. However, both JJ and I are happy to start a family together and I know God will reward us with a healthy baby and many more opportunities for both."
 
Barea also released a statement regarding the news, which was obtained by the Morning News.
 
"Zuleyka and I are very happy and comfortable with this event," he said. "Thank you (for) all the outpouring of support and love we have received and we ask that you allow us to enjoy it in private and in the core of our family."

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