5 Shocking Facts About Sabrina Greenlee: The Unbreakable Story Of DeAndre Hopkins’ Mom And Her Vision

The story of "Hopkins Mom," Sabrina Greenlee, is one of the most powerful and inspirational narratives in modern sports and advocacy, transcending the typical celebrity parent profile to become a symbol of survival and resilience. Her life, marked by unimaginable hardship, poverty, and a horrific act of violence, has fueled not only her own purpose but also the career of her NFL star son, DeAndre Hopkins.

As of today, December 12, 2025, Sabrina Greenlee continues to be a nationally celebrated figure, leveraging her personal trauma to empower countless domestic violence survivors across the United States. Her memoir, advocacy work, and unbreakable bond with the Tennessee Titans wide receiver are the core reasons her name remains a search engine powerhouse.

The Complete Biography of Sabrina Greenlee: From South Carolina to National Advocate

Sabrina Greenlee’s journey began in the shadow of Clemson University, where she was born in South Carolina to teenage parents. Her early life was characterized by cycles of poverty and exposure to various forms of abuse, including sexual abuse, which she has openly discussed as part of her journey toward healing.

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Despite the hardships, she was a dedicated mother, often holding down two jobs to provide for her children, including her son, DeAndre Hopkins.

• Full Name: Sabrina Greenlee
• Known For: Mother of NFL wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, Domestic Violence Survivor, Author, and Community Activist.
• Place of Birth: South Carolina, USA (near Clemson University)
• Children: DeAndre Hopkins (NFL Player), among others.
• Key Event: Survived a brutal acid attack in 2002 that resulted in permanent blindness and severe scarring.
• Organization: Founder and CEO of S.M.O.O.T.H. Inc. (Speaking, Mentally, Outwardly, Opening, Opportunities, Towards, Healing).
• Published Work: Memoir "Grant Me Vision: A Journey of Family, Faith, and Forgiveness" (published in 2024/2025 context).
• Recent Recognition: Named to The Root 100 list for 2024.

The 2002 Acid Attack: A Defining Moment of Survival

The event that irrevocably changed Sabrina Greenlee’s life occurred in 2002. After a confrontation with her then-boyfriend and another woman, a caustic substance—later revealed to be acid—was thrown on her.

The attack was horrific. Greenlee suffered third-degree burns across her face and body, leading to permanent blindness in both eyes and extensive scarring.

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She spent weeks in a coma and months in the hospital undergoing numerous surgeries. This despicable act of violence, a culmination of years of domestic abuse, became the darkest chapter of her life but ultimately fueled her transformation.

Her recovery was a long, arduous process, forcing her to adapt to a world of complete darkness. She credits her faith and the unwavering support of her children for helping her through this period.

Tragically, the perpetrator of the acid attack was a woman who was having an affair with Greenlee's boyfriend at the time. The boyfriend, who was also involved in the attack, was later sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role.

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The Unbreakable Bond Between Sabrina and DeAndre Hopkins

The relationship between Sabrina Greenlee and her son, NFL star DeAndre Hopkins, is legendary and has been a major focus of media coverage, including an ESPN Cover Story.

DeAndre was just a young boy when the acid attack occurred, and he witnessed the devastating aftermath. This trauma created an intensely close and supportive bond between mother and son.

Hopkins has consistently credited his mother as his greatest inspiration and the driving force behind his success in the National Football League (NFL).

The most famous public display of their connection is Hopkins' tradition of giving his touchdown ball to his mother in the stands after he scores. This simple gesture speaks volumes about his devotion and her central role in his life.

When Hopkins was drafted into the NFL, first by the Houston Texans, then playing for the Arizona Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, and now the Tennessee Titans, Greenlee was there every step of the way, often traveling to games despite her blindness.

From Survivor to National Domestic Violence Advocate

Sabrina Greenlee chose not to let her scars define her. Instead, she transformed her pain into a powerful platform for change. In 2013, she founded the non-profit organization S.M.O.O.T.H. Inc.

The acronym S.M.O.O.T.H. stands for Speaking, Mentally, Outwardly, Opening, Opportunities, Towards, Healing. This name perfectly encapsulates the organization's mission to provide resources, support, and a voice for survivors of domestic violence and abuse.

S.M.O.O.T.H. Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit and has been instrumental in raising awareness about the pervasive issue of domestic violence, particularly within the sports community.

Through her work with S.M.O.O.T.H., Greenlee has become a well-respected community leader and motivational speaker. She travels extensively, sharing her story of survival, faith, and forgiveness, inspiring countless individuals to seek help and reclaim their power.

The Impact of "Grant Me Vision" and Future Legacy

In a major step toward cementing her legacy, Sabrina Greenlee released her memoir, "Grant Me Vision: A Journey of Family, Faith, and Forgiveness."

The book, which includes a foreword by DeAndre Hopkins, details her life's journey, from growing up in poverty to enduring the acid attack and finding her purpose as an advocate.

The memoir has been highly successful, positioning Greenlee not just as "DeAndre Hopkins' mom" but as a powerful author and inspirational speaker in her own right.

Her work did not go unnoticed in the advocacy space. In a testament to her impact, Sabrina Greenlee was recognized on The Root 100 list for 2024, an annual list celebrating the most influential African Americans.

Greenlee’s ongoing efforts continue to focus on providing safe spaces and healing opportunities for survivors. Her "Pretty Scars into Stars" initiative, for instance, is a testament to her philosophy of turning trauma into triumph.

The story of Sabrina Greenlee is a powerful reminder that physical blindness does not equate to a lack of vision. She has a clear vision for a world free from domestic violence, and she uses her platform, her voice, and her indelible connection with her son to make that vision a reality for millions. Her resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity makes her a true American hero and a beacon of hope for survivors everywhere.