In 2003, Porschla Coleman took the national stage as a fresh up-and-coming model on the CBS television show, "Star Search." At just 19 years old she landed a modeling contract and $100,000. For many rising models, such success might have been overwhelming at a young age, but Porschla tells Teen Scene, "The experience was fun in the moment but for the most part nothing really changed about my life. I still went home to visit often and for holidays, and I stayed in touch with all of my friends."

Just two years later, Porschla's hometown of Saucier, Mississippi was devastated by Hurricane Katrina. Porschla decided to lend a helping hand with the rebuilding efforts. She was involved with the building of the Marsha Barbour Community Center, built in nearby Pass Christian. "Being from Mississippi I know all to well how idle time can get you into trouble. I got involved with this project because I was excited about all of the educational and extra curricular programs it had to offer. I am a member of the board and I help raise money to keep the center going." The Center will officially open later this month.

By June 2007, Porschla was living in New York and began dating entertainment mogul, Russell Simmons. At the time, Russell was only separated from wife Kimora Lee, not divorced. As a result, tabloids and gossip sites labeled Porschla as Russell's rebound and criticized him for dating someone so soon,  and for dating someone 27 years younger. Porschla took the criticism in stride telling us, "Living in New York and being linked to any high-profile person you are subject to scrutiny. But if you have a good support system and good people around you, it doesn't bother you." The two eventually split during the summer of 2008, but have remained friends.

Porschla began dating NBA star, Jason Kidd, in September 2008 and the two have been able to maintain a quiet lifestyle in Dallas, where Jason plays for the Dallas Mavericks. Along with modeling, Porschla decided to take on the role of Director for the Jason Kidd Foundation. "I came into this position with extreme excitement because of my love and passion for kids and their well-being," she exclaims. "I think everyone should follow their dreams and pursue what they have a real passion for."

Last week Porschla was back in the headlines again with the news of the birth of her and Jason's first child together. The couple were able to keep the pregnancy private until Jason missed a Mavericks game on January 24th to be there for the birth of their beautiful and healthy baby boy. While the couple wishes to keep the details private, they have given Teen Scene an exclusive, beautiful shot of Porschla while she was pregnant. (Be advised, the photo contains partial nudity.)

While the gossip sites continue to criticize Porschla, her ex-boyfriend, Russell Simmons, had only good things to say about her in a recent blog entry, he says, "While spending a great year of my life with Porschla Coleman, I learned that she is smart, independent and is making a positive impact on this world. As a teacher of yoga and a full-time philanthropist, she is someone who touched my heart, because of her kindness and her selfless spirit. She has moved on, found herself a new man that suits her well and they both are embarking on a exciting, new chapter in their lives. The negative portrayal of her by the media is so off-base, that with her graceful spirit she’ll brush it off and continue to be a force of change."

So, what's next for Porschla from here? Well, she has put modeling on the back burner for now to be a full-time mommy. She told us, "Modeling is not long term, [you] enjoy it while you can and move on to the next phase of your life," and she is doing just that. As part of that next phase, you can expect to see Porschla taking on a more public role as the Director of the Jason Kidd Foundation. She tells us that the Foundation is always seeking help and looking for those wanting to get involved. If you'd like to get involved, you can personally get in touch with Porschla at  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Photo Credit: King Magazine (photos 1 & 2), Front Model Management

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