J. R. Smith Net Worth
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4 min read
J.R. Smith Net Worth and Career
In this article, we will explore the net worth of former professional basketball player J.R. Smith, his career highlights, early life, personal life, and how his net worth has evolved over time. Smith is known for his sharpshooting abilities and high-energy playing style.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
As of now, J.R. Smith’s net worth is estimated to be $35 million. Throughout his 18-year NBA career, he earned more than $90.2 million in salary alone. Smith’s career has been highlighted by his two NBA championships, first with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016 and then with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
Early Life and Background
J.R. Smith, born as Earl Joseph Smith III on September 9, 1985, in Freehold Borough, New Jersey, grew up in the Clarksburg section of Millstone Township. He attended multiple high schools, including Steinert High and McCorristin Catholic High, before transferring to Lakewood High and later Saint Benedict’s Preparatory School.
Smith initially excelled in football and baseball but later focused solely on basketball during his senior year. He was highly recruited by colleges and committed to the University of North Carolina. However, after winning co-MVP with Dwight Howard at the 2004 McDonald’s All-American Game, Smith decided to forgo college and enter the NBA Draft.
NBA Career
J.R. Smith was selected as the 18th overall pick by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2004 NBA Draft. He spent two years with the Hornets before being traded to the Denver Nuggets in 2006. He set a franchise record for the number of successful three-pointers (11) during a single game.
Smith briefly played with the Zhejiang Golden Bulls in Asia in 2011, where he signed a one-year deal. However, he sued the team for non-payment of salary.
In 2012, Smith joined the New York Knicks and was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2013. In 2015, he joined the Cleveland Cavaliers and played a crucial role in the team’s run to the NBA Finals, where they fell short to the Golden State Warriors.
The following year, Smith and the Cavaliers returned to the NBA Finals and won the franchise’s first-ever championship by overcoming a 3-1 series deficit against the Warriors.
Smith’s career took another turn when LeBron James left the Cavaliers for the Los Angeles Lakers. Smith joined James after being waived by the Cavs and won his second NBA Championship with the Lakers in 2020.
Personal Life
J.R. Smith married Jewel Harris in August 2016, and they have three daughters together. He also has one daughter from a previous relationship. Smith gained attention for being one of the most heavily tattooed players in the league, with dozens of tattoos, including the Supreme logo on his calf.
Net Worth Over Time
J.R. Smith’s net worth has seen significant growth over his NBA career. Starting with his initial contracts and endorsement deals, Smith has accumulated substantial wealth. His net worth has been boosted by his long-term contracts, which include a three-year, $18 million contract with the New York Knicks and a three-year, $57 million contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Additionally, Smith’s endorsement deals and business ventures contribute to his overall net worth. He has collaborated with brands such as Mike and Supreme, further expanding his financial portfolio.
Components of Net Worth
J.R. Smith’s net worth comprises several components:
- Salary Earnings: Over his career, Smith earned more than $90.2 million in salary alone.
- Endorsement Deals: Smith has partnered with various brands, contributing to his overall net worth.
- Business Ventures: Smith’s collaborations and business ventures, such as modeling for Supreme, have added to his financial success.
- Investments: Like many athletes, Smith likely has investments that contribute to his net worth.
Conclusion
J.R. Smith, with a net worth of $35 million, has had a successful NBA career, highlighted by championship wins and scoring prowess. Despite on-and-off-court controversies, his talent and contributions to the game have helped him accumulate significant wealth throughout his career. His net worth continues to grow through various endeavors and investments, solidifying his financial stability in retirement.
