Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s net worth in 2025 continues to be a topic of interest for many.
Known for his legendary career in the NBA, his wealth comes from multiple sources.
From his time with the Los Angeles Lakers to his career in acting and writing, we’ll break down Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s wealth, salary, and how he built his fortune.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr. |
| Popular Name | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar |
| Birth Date | April 16, 1947 |
| Age | 77 (As of 02/24/2025) |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Habiba Abdul-Jabbar) |
| Spouse | Habiba Abdul-Jabbar (m. 1971–1978) |
| Children | 5 |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Cora and Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Sr. |
| Height | 2.18 meters |
| Net Worth | $25 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | NBA career, endorsements, acting, writing |
What is the Net Worth Of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 2025?
As of 2025, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s net worth is estimated at $25 million. This value is a result of his long and illustrious career, not only on the basketball court but also in entertainment and authorship.
Although his net worth doesn’t compare to current NBA legends like LeBron James, it still showcases his incredible success in and out of the sports world.
In comparison to other NBA stars, Kareem’s wealth is significant but not at the top of the list. However, his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time remains unmatched. He continues to be an influential figure, earning through various business ventures and acting projects.
Here are some notable people related to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar:
- LeBron James
- Magic Johnson
- Michael Jordan
- Shaquille O’Neal
- Wilt Chamberlain
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Milwaukee Bucks
- UCLA Bruins
- Bill Russell
- Larry Bird
For those curious about the wealth of famous athletes, explore more about other iconic figures in sports by reading the latest analysis on the wealthiest athletes.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Build His Wealth and Financial Success?
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s financial journey is rooted in his exceptional career in the NBA, which spanned over two decades. His wealth was primarily built during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers.
NBA Earnings
Drafted in 1969 by the Milwaukee Bucks, Kareem became one of the highest-paid players in the NBA. His salary was significant for his time, especially after he joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 1975.
Though precise salary figures aren’t available for every year of his career, it’s clear that Kareem’s financial success during his time in the NBA laid the foundation for his wealth.
Endorsements
Like many NBA stars, Kareem earned a substantial portion of his income from endorsements. His most notable deal was with Coca-Cola, which boosted his financial status. His success was also driven by his marketability off the court.
Post-Retirement Ventures
After retiring in 1989, Kareem continued to generate income through various ventures, including writing books, appearing in films, and making television appearances.
His notable roles in movies like Airplane! and Game of Death with Bruce Lee were part of his post-basketball career. Moreover, he became a highly respected author, tackling subjects such as race, history, and social justice. These activities contributed to his ongoing wealth.
Real Estate
Kareem invested in several real estate properties, including a stunning estate in Kauai, Hawaii, where he lived for many years. He also owned a property in Los Angeles, which he sold later at a significant profit.
What Are the Key Sources of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Income?
Kareem’s income is diverse, stemming from his basketball career, endorsements, writing, and acting:
Basketball Career
As mentioned, Kareem’s initial wealth came from his NBA contract. Playing for the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers, he earned substantial salaries, with his highest earnings coming during the Lakers’ championship runs in the 1980s.
Endorsements
In addition to his salary, Kareem enjoyed endorsement deals that boosted his wealth. His deals with major brands helped him establish himself as a recognizable figure even outside basketball.
Books and Writing
As an author, Kareem has published multiple books, including Giant Steps (his autobiography), Writings on the Wall, and Coach Wooden and Me. His works, especially on social justice, continue to generate income through royalties.
Acting Career
Kareem’s acting career, while not extensive, includes notable films like Airplane! and Game of Death, as well as television appearances on shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Scrubs.
Public Speaking and Advocacy
Kareem has also made money through public speaking engagements, where he shares his insights on topics ranging from race relations to basketball strategy.
What Was Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Career Earnings in the NBA?
While exact salary figures from Kareem’s early years in the NBA are unavailable, it’s clear that he made a fortune throughout his career.
With six NBA championships, three MVP awards, and countless endorsement deals, Kareem’s income in his active years was substantial. At the time of his retirement in 1989, Kareem had earned a significant salary and continued to benefit from the fame he gained through his legendary career.
How Did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Manage His Finances After Retirement?
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s post-retirement financial success can be attributed to his careful planning and diversified portfolio:
- Investments: After retiring, Kareem made several successful investments in real estate, including his famous Hawaiian property. He also built a brand around his intellectual pursuits, working as a mentor and coach to younger players.
- Public Speaking and Books: He has written multiple bestsellers, which not only earned him royalties but also solidified his position as a thought leader in both sports and social justice.
- Lifestyle and Financial Management: Kareem has always been a disciplined individual, and this extends to his financial management. He maintained a relatively low-profile lifestyle while continuing to secure deals in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s wealth and financial journey are a testament to his discipline both on and off the court.
From his days as an NBA legend to his diverse ventures after retirement, Kareem has shown that financial success is built on both talent and smart decision-making.
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