What Is John Starks Net Worth?
John Starks, a retired American professional basketball shooting guard, has accumulated a net worth of $20 million. This financial standing is largely attributed to his successful career in the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he played for several teams, most notably the New York Knicks. While he went undrafted, Starks’ impact on the game, especially during his time with the Knicks in the 1990s, solidified his legacy and contributed to his financial success.
John Starks’ Career Earnings and Contract Details
During his NBA career, John Starks earned $25 million in salary alone. Specific details about his contracts with the Golden State Warriors, Chicago Bulls, and Utah Jazz are not readily available to the public. However, the New York Knicks were compelled to keep him on the team due to an injury suffered during a try-out. After recovering, he continued practicing with the team and eventually became their starting shooting guard. Starks was a key player on the team and played for eight seasons between 1990 and 1998. His peak earnings likely occurred during his time with the Knicks, where he was a prominent player and a fan favorite. Starks became the first player in NBA history to make 200 three-point shots in one season, having recorded 217. While specific contract amounts for each year are not publicly accessible, it’s safe to assume his salary increased as he became a more valuable player for the team.
Early Life and Background
John Starks was born on August 10, 1965, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He attended Tulsa Central High School, where he played one year on the basketball team. In 1984, he entered Rogers State College, where he was part of the basketball team’s “taxi squad.” His time at Rogers State was cut short when he was expelled for stealing a student’s stereo equipment. Subsequently, in 1985, he transferred to Northern Oklahoma College and made the basketball team after serving five days in jail. Starks eventually left the college after being caught smoking marijuana in his dorm room. Later, John enrolled at Tulsa Junior College to pursue a business degree and was invited to play for the Oklahoma Junior College basketball team for one season. In 1988, he earned a scholarship to Oklahoma State University, where he finished his university career. The specific address where Starks lived during his early life is not publicly available. However, his formative years in Tulsa clearly laid the groundwork for his future basketball career.
Key Milestones and Achievements
One of the most iconic moments in John Starks’ career, often referred to as “The Dunk,” took place during the 1993 Eastern Conference Finals against the Chicago Bulls. In this play, Starks drove to the net and dunked over Horace Grant and Michael Jordan. While this play didn’t directly translate into financial gains, it significantly boosted his profile and popularity, indirectly contributing to his marketability and long-term earning potential. In the 1994 NBA Finals, John recorded a career-high 19 points per game. The following year, John became the first player in NBA history to make 200 three-point shots in one season, having recorded 217.
Post-NBA Career Ventures and Investments
Since retiring from the NBA in 2002, John Starks has been involved in various ventures that contribute to his net worth. He currently works as a pre-game and post-game analyst for the Knicks’ home games on the MSG Network. The specific salary he earns from MSG Network is not publicly disclosed. He is also part-owner of the Ektio basketball shoe brand, which is designed to reduce ankle injuries in players. While the exact details of his investment in Ektio and the returns he has received are private, such a venture would contribute to his overall net worth. These post-career activities allow Starks to continue earning income and leveraging his basketball fame.
Real Estate and Personal Assets
Specific details about John Starks’ real estate holdings, such as the addresses or names of properties he owns, are not publicly available. Information on whether he owns a private plane or a collection of luxury cars is also not readily accessible. Assets like real estate and high-value personal property can significantly impact an individual’s net worth. However, without concrete details, it is difficult to quantify their contribution to John Starks’ overall financial picture.
Personal Life and Habits
John Starks has been married to his wife, Jackie, since December 13, 1986. They have three children: John Jr. (born in 1987), Chelsea, and Tiara. Details about his daily routines, work habits, or specific public appearances are not extensively documented in the public domain. The amount of his contribution to different charities has also not been publicly disclosed. While these aspects of his life don’t directly translate into quantifiable financial data, they provide a more complete picture of the individual behind the $20 million net worth.