Aug 2, 2026 9:28 PM
Former SMU tight end Stone Eby is engaged to Emma Gretzky after a college romance that began on the Hilltop and grew into a young family.
Former SMU Mustangs tight end Stone Eby just scored the biggest commitment of his life.
Eby and Emma Gretzky, the youngest daughter of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, are engaged after a relationship that began during their time together at SMU.
Emma announced the news on Instagram, sharing photos of Eby’s scenic proposal and writing, “The easiest yes to a lifetime with you❤️.”
Both are 23, and their connection adds another chapter to a love story that started on the Hilltop.
Eby played tight end for the SMU football program, while Emma competed for the Mustangs’ women’s tennis team during her first two college seasons.
The couple began dating in November 2022 and later welcomed their son, Walter, in August 2025.
The engagement photos showed Eby and Emma celebrating near a field overlooking the water.
Walter also joined his parents for several of the pictures, turning the announcement into a full family moment rather than simply another celebrity engagement post.
Emma’s mother, actress Janet Jones Gretzky, quickly celebrated the news in the comments.
“Congratulations ♥️ Love You All !” she wrote.
While the Gretzky name will naturally drive much of the national attention, the couple’s SMU connection gives Mustangs fans a reason to join the celebration.
Eby’s playing career placed him inside one of college football’s fastest-rising programs, while Emma carried one of sports’ most recognizable last names into SMU’s tennis program.
Walter may already be showing signs that his famous grandfather’s influence is kicking in, too.
Emma shared photos and videos in July of her son getting an early introduction to ice skating. The toddler wore a green-and-white striped hoodie while sitting alongside the rink before attempting to stay upright on skates with some assistance.
“He got it from his papa🏒,” Emma wrote.
Wayne and Janet Gretzky have five children: Paulina, Ty, Trevor, Tristan and Emma. Wayne has previously spoken proudly about Emma’s tennis career and the discipline required to compete in the sport.
Now Emma and Eby are preparing for the next stage of their lives together after meeting as SMU student-athletes, building a relationship and becoming parents.
For Eby, the former Mustangs tight end has traded Saturday collisions for wedding preparations. Judging by the reaction to the announcement, the Gretzky and SMU families are both thrilled with the result.
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