Larry Bird Net Worth: NBA Salary, Endorsements, Business Ventures, and More

Have you ever stopped to wonder how legends like Larry Bird stay in the spotlight even after hanging up their jerseys? Known as “The Hick from French Lick” and “Larry Legend,” Bird’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Most NBA enthusiasts would know the 10x All Star didn’t just play basketball, he redefined it.

However, not many might know that he’s the only person in NBA history to be named Rookie of the Year, MVP, Finals MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year. It’s obvious that the league would’ve rewarded him just the same financially too. His financial success, however, was not limited to his NBA journey as a player. So let’s have a closer look at how much he made through his diverse basketball career and more.

Larry Bird’s net worth and earnings from the NBA

With a staggering net worth of $80 million, Bird’s success story goes far beyond the basketball court. His fortune isn’t just from his days as a player. It also came from coaching, endorsements, and his tenure as president of the Indiana Pacers. Let’s take a closer look at how he built this incredible legacy.

During his NBA career, The Great White Hope reportedly earned approximately $24 million in salary. But it was in 1988, while he was recovering from foot surgery, that he made headlines for something truly groundbreaking. Bird negotiated a contract extension that wasn’t just big—it was historic. He became the first NBA player to earn over $6 million in a single season.

To help the Boston Celtics stay within salary cap restrictions, the 12x All Star agreed to delay most of the payment until the 1991-1992 season. Following this, he went from a $1.5 million salary in 1990-1991 to over $7 million the next season! That final season, however, wasn’t just the end of his playing career—it was the start of a whole new chapter.

Even after hanging up his jersey, Larry Bird’s connection to basketball remained strong. He worked as a special assistant in the Celtics’ front office from 1992 to 1997. Then, in 1997, he took on a new role as the head coach of the Indiana Pacers. But Bird being Bird, he wasn’t one to overstay his welcome. He promised to coach for only three years, and true to his word, he stepped down after the 2000 season.

But in 2003, the 10x All Star returned to the Pacers again. Only this time, as their president of basketball operations. His brilliance in this role earned him the NBA Executive of the Year award in 2012, making him the only person in NBA history to win MVP, the Coach of the Year, and the Executive of the Year.

So, what’s the secret to Bird’s enduring success? From record-breaking contracts to leadership roles, the 10x All Star consistently showed that greatness isn’t confined to the court. And neither was it confined to basketball-oriented roles for him.

Other sources of income that contributed to Bird’s net wealth

Bird’s ability to diversify his income and assets is a testament to his sharp mind and versatility, and it’s fascinating to explore the ways he’s built his wealth.

Let’s start with endorsements. Not many might know this, but the 3x NBA champ has appeared in multiple clothing advertisements and even video games? But perhaps most notably, he’s been a significant face for the Heinz Corporation, promoting their products and chain restaurants. It’s not every day that an NBA legend helps market your ketchup and baked beans. But Bird managed to pull it off with his signature charm.

Now, if you’re a Space Jam fan, you might also remember Bird’s cameo in the movie. It’s a small but impactful way he expanded his fame to movie lovers, cementing himself as a cultural icon. No wonder his income also flowed in from documentaries about his life and career. Titles like A Basketball Legend, Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies, and Magic & Bird: A Courtship of Rivals don’t just showcase his journey—they keep his legacy alive while contributing to his earnings.

And Bird didn’t stop there—he dabbled heavily in real estate. In Terre Haute, Indiana, his hometown, the 3x NBA champ co-owns a hotel and restaurant. In fact, he even turned one of his homes into a restaurant where NBA officials could dine for free.

And if you’re into luxury real estate, the 10x All Star’s former Indianapolis mansion would blow you away. Spanning 10,232 square feet, it had everything from a wine cellar and pub-style wet bar to a pool house with a kitchen. He sold it for $2.3 million in 2019.

Finally, let’s talk cars. The Celtics legend’s collection includes a Pacer’s Indy Car, a Thunderbird Mustang, and a Ford—because even off the court, the 10x All Star knows how to make a statement. Clearly, Larry Bird’s wealth isn’t just about numbers. It’s a story of creativity, passion, and an enduring legacy that goes far beyond basketball.