Overview

Calvin Jerome Murphy, born on May 9, 1948, is an American former professional basketball player renowned for his dynamic career in the NBA. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches, he defied height limitations, becoming one of the league’s most exciting guards. Murphy played college basketball at Niagara University where he averaged 33.1 points per game. Drafted into the NBA in 1970, Murphy spent his entire 13-season professional career with the San Diego/Houston Rockets. His achievements include being named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 1971 and an NBA All-Star in 1979. Known for his scoring ability, speed, and defensive skills, Murphy set records as one of the best free-throw shooters in NBA history. After retiring from the NBA in 1983, Murphy transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a member of the Houston Rockets’ broadcast team. His contributions to basketball were honored with an induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993. Murphy remains an iconic figure in basketball, celebrated for his skills and impact on the sport.

Houston Rockets’ Space City Home Network broadcast team

television analyst

What Is Calvin Murphy’s Net Worth?

Calvin Murphy, an American former professional basketball player, has a net worth estimated at $3 million. Murphy’s career spanned from 1970 to 1983, during which he played as a guard for the San Diego/Houston Rockets. Beyond his earnings as a player, his net worth is also attributed to endorsements, investments, and his ongoing role in broadcasting.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born on May 9, 1948, in Norwalk, Connecticut, Calvin Murphy displayed exceptional athletic abilities from a young age. Before his basketball career took off, he was a world-class baton twirler, even winning a national championship as an 8th grader in 1963. This talent allowed him to perform at major sporting events and the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Murphy’s basketball journey began at Norwalk High School, where he earned All-State honors three times and All-America honors twice. His high school’s address is now 23 Calvin Murphy Rd. in his honor. He then attended Niagara University from 1967 to 1970, where he was a three-time All-American, averaging 33.1 points per game and scoring a total of 2,548 points in 77 games. One of his best games was a 68-point outing against Syracuse University at Niagara’s Gallagher Center.

NBA Career and Earnings

Murphy was drafted by the San Diego Rockets (now the Houston Rockets) as the 18th overall pick in the 1970 NBA draft. He played his entire 13-year NBA career with the Rockets, becoming a key player for the team. In 1971, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His consistent performance ensured he was well-compensated, though specific salary figures from that era are not readily available. In the 1978 season, specifically on March 18, 1978, Murphy scored a career-high of 57 points during a game against the New Jersey Nets, which ended in a 106-104 loss. During the 1980-81 NBA season, Murphy played a key role in the Rockets making it to the NBA Finals. That postseason run, on April 17, 1981, Murphy led the Rockets to a decisive Western Conference Semifinals Game 7 win over the San Antonio Spurs with 42 points, a postseason career high. He scored a total of 17,949 points and made 4,402 assists throughout his whole NBA career. His jersey number 23 was retired by the Houston Rockets. While exact figures from that era are not readily available, his consistent performance ensured he was well-compensated.

Post-NBA Career and Income Streams

After retiring from professional basketball, Murphy remained active in the basketball community. He has served as a television analyst for Rockets games. He is currently the halftime and post-game analyst for local Rockets broadcasts on AT&T SportsNet. He hosted The Calvin Murphy Show on ESPN Radio’s Houston affiliate from 2007 until its cancellation in January 2010. As a Hall of Famer, Murphy has also secured endorsements from various brands. While specific details about his endorsement deals are not widely documented, his marketability has extended beyond his playing days. He also participates in public appearances and basketball-related events that generate additional income.

© 2025 Net Worth Ranker / All Rights Reserved