Bernard King Net Worth: A Closer Look At The NBA Legend’s Financial Empire

Abbigail Braun 15 May 2025

Ever wondered about Bernard King's net worth? The name Bernard King is synonymous with basketball greatness, and his career on and off the court has been nothing short of legendary. From his early days as a high school star to becoming one of the most feared scorers in the NBA, Bernard’s journey is a tale of resilience, talent, and determination. But how much is Bernard King worth today? Let’s dive in and find out!

Bernard King’s career wasn’t just about scoring points; it was about leaving a legacy. His impact on the game is still felt today, and his financial success is a testament to his hard work and dedication. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Bernard King’s net worth, his career highlights, and how he built his wealth over the years.

As we dig deeper into Bernard King’s financial empire, you’ll discover the factors that contributed to his wealth, including his NBA earnings, endorsements, and post-retirement ventures. So, if you’re curious about how much Bernard King is worth and what makes him one of the most successful athletes of his era, keep reading!

Biography: Who Is Bernard King?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of Bernard King’s net worth, let’s take a step back and learn more about the man behind the legend. Bernard King was born on November 26, 1956, in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up, basketball wasn’t just a hobby for Bernard—it was his life. His passion for the sport led him to become one of the most dominant players of his time.

Here’s a quick look at Bernard King’s personal and professional life:

Full Name	Bernard Lewis King
Date of Birth	November 26, 1956
Place of Birth	Brooklyn, New York
Height	6 ft 7 in (2.01 m)
Position	Small Forward / Power Forward
NBA Draft	1977 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7
College	University of Tennessee

Early Life and Career

Bernard King’s journey to basketball stardom began in the streets of Brooklyn. His natural talent and work ethic quickly set him apart from his peers. By the time he reached high school, Bernard was already making waves in the basketball world. His impressive performance earned him a scholarship to the University of Tennessee, where he further honed his skills.

At Tennessee, Bernard King became a household name. He was named an All-American twice and led his team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. His college success paved the way for a promising NBA career, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Key Achievements in College

Two-time All-American (1976, 1977)
SEC Player of the Year (1977)
Averaged 22.3 points and 9.7 rebounds per game during his college career

Bernard King Net Worth: How Much Is He Worth?

So, how much is Bernard King worth? As of 2023, Bernard King’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. This figure is a combination of his NBA earnings, endorsements, and post-retirement ventures. While $20 million may not seem like a fortune compared to today’s top athletes, it’s important to remember that Bernard played during a different era when salaries were significantly lower.

Despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career, Bernard King managed to build a solid financial foundation. His ability to adapt and thrive both on and off the court has been a key factor in his financial success.

Factors Contributing to Bernard King’s Net Worth

NBA Salary: Bernard earned millions during his playing days, with his peak earnings coming during his time with the New York Knicks.
Endorsements: Although endorsements weren’t as prominent back then, Bernard still secured a few lucrative deals during his career.
Post-Retirement Ventures: After retiring from basketball, Bernard ventured into various business opportunities, further boosting his net worth.

Bernard King’s NBA Career: A Journey of Triumph and Challenges

Bernard King’s NBA career was nothing short of extraordinary. Drafted 7th overall by the New Jersey Nets in 1977, Bernard quickly established himself as one of the league’s top scorers. Over the course of his 14-year career, he played for several teams, including the New York Knicks, Washington Bullets, and Golden State Warriors.

Despite his incredible talent, Bernard’s career was marred by injuries. However, his resilience and determination allowed him to make a remarkable comeback, earning him the NBA Comeback Player of the Year award in 1985.

Key Career Highlights

4-time NBA All-Star (1982, 1984, 1985, 1988)
NBA Comeback Player of the Year (1985)
Career Averages: 22.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game

Financial Success Beyond the NBA

After retiring from professional basketball, Bernard King didn’t let his career fade into obscurity. Instead, he leveraged his fame and connections to build a successful post-retirement life. His business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit played a crucial role in growing his net worth.

Bernard ventured into various industries, including real estate, sports broadcasting, and community development. His involvement in these fields not only added to his wealth but also allowed him to give back to the community that supported him throughout his career.

Key Post-Retirement Ventures

Real Estate Investments: Bernard invested in several real estate projects, which proved to be lucrative ventures.
Sports Broadcasting: He worked as a color commentator for NBA games, sharing his insights and expertise with fans.
Community Involvement: Bernard has been actively involved in charitable initiatives, focusing on youth development and education.

Challenges and Comebacks: The Bernard King Story

Bernard King’s career was not without its challenges. From knee injuries that threatened to end his career to personal struggles off the court, Bernard faced numerous obstacles. However, his ability to overcome adversity and make a comeback is what sets him apart from many of his contemporaries.

In 1985, after a devastating knee injury, Bernard made a remarkable return to the NBA, earning the Comeback Player of the Year award. This achievement is a testament to his resilience and determination, qualities that have contributed to his financial success as well.

Lessons from Bernard King’s Journey

Resilience: Never give up, no matter how tough things get.
Determination: Stay focused on your goals and work hard to achieve them.
Adaptability: Be willing to adapt and change when necessary to succeed.

Comparing Bernard King’s Net Worth to Other NBA Legends

When it comes to net worth, Bernard King may not be in the same league as today’s top athletes, but his financial success is still impressive. Compared to other NBA legends from his era, Bernard’s net worth holds up well, especially considering the challenges he faced during his career.

For instance, Magic Johnson, another NBA legend from the same era, has a net worth of over $600 million. While Bernard’s net worth may not be as high, his ability to build a solid financial foundation despite numerous setbacks is a testament to his business acumen and resilience.

Net Worth Comparison

Bernard King: $20 million
Magic Johnson: $600 million
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: $80 million

Legacy and Impact on the Game

Bernard King’s legacy extends far beyond his net worth. His impact on the game of basketball is immeasurable. As one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history, Bernard set the standard for future generations of players. His scoring ability, combined with his tenacity and work ethic, made him a role model for aspiring athletes.

Today, Bernard King’s name is still revered in basketball circles, and his contributions to the game continue to inspire young players around the world.

Key Contributions to the Game

Scoring Records: Bernard holds several scoring records, including the Knicks’ single-game scoring record with 60 points.
Mentorship: He has mentored numerous young players, helping them develop their skills and reach their full potential.
Community Involvement: Bernard’s commitment to giving back to the community has left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Conclusion: Bernard King’s Financial Legacy

In conclusion, Bernard King’s net worth is a reflection of his hard work, determination, and resilience. From his days as a high school star in Brooklyn to becoming one of the most feared scorers in the NBA, Bernard’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. His ability to overcome adversity and build a successful financial empire is a testament to his character and vision.

So, if you’re wondering how much Bernard King is worth, the answer is more than just a number. It’s a story of triumph, challenges, and the pursuit of excellence. If you enjoyed this article, feel free to leave a comment, share it with your friends, or explore other articles on our site. Who knows? You might discover your next favorite basketball legend!

And hey, if you’re inspired by Bernard King’s story, why not take a step towards building your own financial legacy? After all, success is not just about the numbers—it’s about the journey.

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