
Kyrie Irving’s Net Worth, Salary, and Journey in the NBA: A Tale of Talent and Controversy
Kyrie Irving is an Australian-American basketball player with an impressive net worth of $90 million. Known for his incredible handles and clutch shooting, Kyrie has been a major star in the NBA since he was the first pick in the 2011 draft. Born on March 23, 1992, Kyrie is 32 years old today and currently earns a base salary of $37 million. His journey in basketball has been full of highs and lows, both on and off the court. In this blog, we’ll explore Kyrie’s career, controversies, and how he built his fortune.
Early Life and Passion for Basketball
Kyrie Irving was born in Melbourne, Australia, but moved to the United States when he was just two years old. His father, Drederick Irving, was also a talented basketball player who played college basketball at Boston University and later in Australia’s professional league. Kyrie’s mother passed away when he was only four years old, which made his aunts play a significant role in raising him.
Growing up in West Orange, New Jersey, Kyrie was obsessed with basketball. His father’s influence and support helped him develop his skills early on. By high school, it was clear that Kyrie was special. He played for Montclair Kimberley Academy and later St. Patrick High School, where he quickly made a name for himself. His impressive performance earned him a spot on the Junior National Select team and a gold medal at the FIBA Americas Under-18 Championship in 2010.
Although he was offered a scholarship to Boston University, Kyrie chose to attend Duke University. Unfortunately, his college career was cut short by a ligament injury. After playing only 11 games, he declared for the 2011 NBA draft.
NBA Career: From Cleveland to Dallas
Kyrie was selected as the first overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2011 NBA draft. His rookie season was a hit, earning him the Rookie of the Year award. Known for his handles and shooting, Kyrie quickly became a cornerstone for the Cavs. In 2016, he played a vital role in leading the team to an NBA Championship, making one of the most iconic shots in NBA Finals history against the Golden State Warriors.
However, after the 2017 season, Kyrie requested a trade and was sent to the Boston Celtics. His time in Boston was a mix of brilliance and frustration, highlighted by injuries that kept him from reaching his full potential. In 2019, Kyrie signed a four-year, $141 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets. Despite impressive performances, his stint with the Nets was marred by controversies and injuries.
In 2023, after a series of off-court issues and a trade request, Kyrie was traded to the Dallas Mavericks. He signed a three-year, $126 million contract with the team, further boosting his net worth.
Salary and Endorsements
Kyrie’s current base salary stands at $37 million per year. Over the years, he has earned hundreds of millions of dollars through contracts and endorsements. His previous contracts with the Cavaliers, Celtics, and Nets have contributed significantly to his wealth.
Apart from his salary, Kyrie has earned a substantial amount from endorsements. He signed a $11 million per year deal with Nike in 2014, and his signature shoes were among the top sellers. However, in December 2022, Nike terminated its contract with Kyrie following an antisemitism controversy. This decision reportedly cost Kyrie millions in potential earnings.
His other endorsement deals have included Pepsi and Skullcandy, along with a range of appearances in commercials and even a movie titled “Uncle Drew” in 2018. Through a combination of salary, endorsements, and business ventures, Kyrie has successfully built his $90 million net worth.
Controversies and Challenges
Kyrie Irving’s career has been marked by both greatness and controversy. In 2021, he made headlines for refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine, which led to him being unable to play in home games for the Nets due to New York City’s indoor vaccination mandate. Kyrie later claimed that his decision cost him nearly $100 million in lost salary and endorsements.
In November 2022, Kyrie found himself in the middle of another controversy when he shared a social media post that was interpreted as antisemitic. The backlash was severe, leading to Nike terminating its partnership with him. Kyrie’s ability to bounce back from these controversies and maintain his financial success is a testament to his skill on the court.
Personal Life and Legacy
Kyrie Irving has one daughter from a previous relationship. He is known for his philanthropy and has donated millions to various causes, including food banks and educational programs. In 2021, he was officially enrolled as a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, honoring his Lakota heritage.
Kyrie’s beliefs and outspokenness have often put him in the spotlight. From flat earth theories to critiques of the education system, Kyrie has never shied away from expressing his views. While his opinions have made him a polarizing figure, they have also added to his unique legacy in the NBA.
Real Estate Investments
Kyrie has invested some of his wealth in real estate. He reportedly owns a luxurious home in New Jersey and has other investments that contribute to his net worth. His smart financial moves off the court reflect a keen business sense and a desire to secure his future beyond basketball.
Conclusion
Kyrie Irving’s story is one of talent, controversy, and resilience. With a net worth of $90 million and a base salary of $37 million, he remains one of the most skilled and highest-paid players in the NBA. His ability to navigate challenges both on and off the court shows a depth that goes beyond basketball.
Kyrie’s journey proves that greatness often comes with challenges. As he continues to evolve both as a player and as a person, fans can only wait to see what the next chapter holds for this NBA superstar.
Popular Categories