Rick Pitino has built a fortune through decades of coaching in the NCAA and NBA. But how much is he actually worth today?
His salary at St. John’s, past contracts, and investments all play a role in his financial status.
Let’s break down Rick Pitino net worth, income sources, and financial moves that have shaped his career.
Rick Pitino Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Richard Andrew Pitino |
| Popular Name | Rick Pitino |
| Birth Date | September 18, 1952 |
| Age | 72 (as of March 16, 2025) |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | N/A |
| Education | University of Massachusetts Amherst (Graduated in 1974) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Joanne Minardi (married in 1976) |
| Children | Six (one deceased) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | Daniel Pitino |
| Parents | Richard and Joanne Pitino |
| Height | 1.83 meters (6 feet 0 inches) |
| Net Worth | $45 million |
| Source of Wealth | Basketball coaching, book sales, horse racing investments |
What is the Net Worth Of Rick Pitino in 2025?
Rick Pitino’s estimated net worth in 2025 stands at $45 million. His wealth comes primarily from his long coaching career in college basketball and the NBA, alongside book sales and investments.
Compared to other legendary coaches, Pitino remains among the highest-earning basketball coaches in history.
He has coached at Boston University, Kentucky, Louisville, and St. John’s University, among others. His salary, endorsements, and past legal battles have shaped his financial standing.
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- Mike Krzyzewski
- John Calipari
- Tom Izzo
- Phil Jackson
- Billy Donovan
- Larry Brown
- Jim Boeheim
- Steve Kerr
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- Greg Popovich
Interested in learning about other top-earning figures in sports? Check out our list of the most financially successful celebrities.
Rick Pitino Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Much Does He Earn?
Rick Pitino’s current salary at St. John’s University is reportedly $7.7 million per year. This puts him among the highest-paid NCAA coaches, though below the likes of John Calipari and Bill Self.
At Louisville, he earned over $5 million annually before his 2017 dismissal. His contracts with Boston Celtics and New York Knicks were also lucrative, though his NBA coaching record wasn’t as successful as his college career.
What Are His Main Sources of Income?
Pitino’s wealth isn’t just from coaching. His income sources include:
- Coaching Contracts – The majority of his earnings come from multi-million-dollar coaching deals.
- Book Sales & Motivational Speaking – His books, such as Success is a Choice and Pitino: My Story, have sold well.
- Endorsements & Sponsorships – Pitino had ties with Adidas before the 2017 scandal.
- Investments in Horse Racing – He owns stakes in RAP Racing and Goldencents, a racehorse that won $750,000 at the 2013 Santa Anita Derby.
How Has His Career Earnings Grown Over Time?
Pitino’s career earnings reflect decades of coaching success. He started as an assistant coach at Hawaii (1974-76) and steadily climbed the ranks.
- 1980s – Coached Boston University and Providence, boosting his career.
- 1990s – Led Kentucky to an NCAA Championship (1996) and signed an NBA deal with the Celtics.
- 2000s – Longest coaching stint with Louisville (2001-2017), earning over $50 million in contracts.
- 2018-2023 – European coaching at Panathinaikos, followed by a return to Iona College and later St. John’s.
What Are His Notable Financial Assets?
Pitino’s most significant financial assets include:
- Real Estate – He owned a 12,000-square-foot Miami mansion, purchased for $5.4 million in 1999, and sold in 2020 for $17 million.
- Luxury Lifestyle – Pitino has been known to enjoy high-end cars, vacations, and horse racing investments.
- Book Royalties – His motivational books continue to bring in passive income.
What Financial Setbacks Has He Faced?
Despite his wealth, Pitino has experienced financial challenges:
- 2017 Louisville Scandal – Lost his $40 million lawsuit settlement after being fired.
- NCAA Violations – The 2013 NCAA Championship was vacated due to an escort scandal.
- Adidas Bribery Case – Alleged involvement in a $100,000 payment scheme for a recruit’s family.
These controversies affected his reputation, but he has since rebounded by securing new coaching positions.
How Does He Manage His Wealth?
Pitino has maintained strong financial planning strategies, despite setbacks:
- Diverse Investments – Horse racing, book royalties, and real estate holdings.
- Legal Settlements – He sued Louisville but ultimately settled for no additional money.
- Philanthropy – Co-founded the Daniel Pitino Foundation in honor of his late son, supporting charities for children.
What Is His Financial Future?
With his St. John’s contract, Pitino remains one of the top-earning college basketball coaches. His long-term financial future looks stable, with continued revenue from coaching, books, and speaking engagements.
As he nears retirement, his wealth management will determine his legacy beyond basketball.
Conclusion
Rick Pitino has built an impressive financial portfolio through decades of coaching, investments, and business ventures. His $45 million net worth keeps him among the highest-paid figures in basketball.
However, legal troubles and NCAA violations have also impacted his earnings.
What do you think of Pitino’s financial journey? Leave a comment, share this article, or explore more celebrity finances on AndoMoney.
