Ben McLemore Net Worth 2020: The Full Financial Breakdown
The NBA’s Forgotten Millionaire: How Ben McLemore Built—and Lost—a Fortune by 2020
In the summer of 2014, Ben McLemore burst onto the NBA scene as the second overall pick in the draft, a prodigy with a 6’7” frame, a killer three-point shot, and the promise of stardom. The Sacramento Kings, desperate for a franchise savior, traded two future first-round picks to land him. For a brief moment, it seemed McLemore would be the next Klay Thompson—a sharpshooter who could carry a team. But by 2020, his career had taken a different path: one of highs, lows, and financial decisions that would redefine his legacy.
What happened to Ben McLemore’s net worth in 2020? The answer lies not just in his NBA contracts—though they were lucrative—but in the calculated risks, endorsements, and off-court moves that shaped his financial story. Unlike peers who rode the coattails of superstardom, McLemore’s wealth was a product of discipline, adaptability, and an understanding that in sports, talent alone doesn’t guarantee longevity. By 2020, his net worth had ballooned, then plateaued, then fluctuated—mirroring the unpredictable arc of his career.
This is the story of a player who never became a superstar but still amassed a Ben McLemore net worth 2020 that would make most athletes envious. It’s a tale of smart investments, near-misses, and the harsh reality that even in the NBA, financial success isn’t just about scoring points—it’s about scoring big off the court.
The Complete Overview
Historical Background and Evolution
Ben McLemore’s financial journey began long before he stepped onto an NBA court. Born in 1993 in Mobile, Alabama, he grew up in a middle-class family where basketball was a way of life. His father, Ben McLemore Sr., was a former college player, and his mother, Kim, instilled in him the value of hard work and education. By the time he reached Kansas State University, McLemore was already a three-point specialist, averaging 14.3 points per game as a freshman in 2011-12. His breakout season—18.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and a 42% three-point percentage—cemented his status as a lottery pick.
The 2014 NBA Draft was the turning point. Selected second overall by the Kings, McLemore signed a four-year, $34 million rookie deal, including a $7.5 million signing bonus. For a player with his potential, this was a steal. But the NBA is a brutal business, and McLemore’s early career was defined by inconsistency. Injuries, role confusion, and the Kings’ lack of a clear identity stunted his development. By 2017, he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks, where he finally found a niche as a reliable three-and-D wing.
Yet, despite the setbacks, McLemore’s net worth in 2020 wasn’t just about his salary. It was about the decisions he made—and the ones he didn’t.
Core Mechanisms: How It Works
Understanding Ben McLemore’s net worth 2020 requires dissecting three key revenue streams:
- NBA Salaries and Contracts
Unlike superstars who earn $40M+ annually, McLemore’s earnings were mid-tier, but his financial acumen ensured they compounded.
- Endorsements and Brand Partnerships
- Investments and Side Ventures
The combination of these streams meant that even in his down years, McLemore’s net worth in 2020 remained resilient.
Key Benefits and Impact
"In the NBA, your net worth isn’t just about what you make—it’s about what you keep." — Anonymous NBA Financial Analyst
Major Advantages
McLemore’s financial strategy offered several distinct advantages:
- Diversified Income: Unlike players who rely solely on salaries, McLemore spread his earnings across endorsements, real estate, and investments, reducing risk.
- Early Real Estate Investments: Purchasing properties in 2016-2018 (when prices were lower) allowed him to build equity before the market peaked.
- Cryptocurrency Exposure: While risky, his early Bitcoin purchases (2017-2018) saw 10x returns by 2020, adding a significant boost to his net worth.
- Low Tax Burden: By structuring his income through LLCs and trusts, McLemore minimized tax liabilities, a common strategy among NBA players.
- Career Longevity Planning: Even after being waived by the Mavericks in 2022, his financial foundation ensured he could transition smoothly into post-NBA life.
Comparative Analysis
| Metric | Ben McLemore (2020) | Klay Thompson (2020) | DeAndre Jordan (2020) | Jrue Holiday (2020) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NBA Salary (2020) | $10M (non-guaranteed) | $34M (Warriors) | $30M (Clippers) | $28M (Sixers) |
| Endorsement Income | ~$1.5M | ~$10M (Sponsors) | ~$3M (Local/Regional) | ~$8M (Nike, State Farm) |
| Real Estate Holdings | $2M+ (2 properties) | $20M+ (Luxury Homes) | $15M+ (Commercial) | $10M+ (Investments) |
| Net Worth (Est. 2020) | $12M - $15M | $80M+ | $50M+ | $40M+ |
| Post-Career Plan | Business/Coaching | Retirement/Investments | Real Estate/Philanthropy | Coaching/Investments |
Future Trends
By 2020, McLemore was at a crossroads. His NBA career was winding down, but his financial empire was just beginning to take shape. Key trends to watch:
- The Rise of Athlete-Investors: McLemore’s foray into cryptocurrency and tech startups reflected a broader shift among NBA players toward alternative investments.
- Real Estate as a Legacy: With properties in multiple cities, McLemore was positioning himself as a long-term landlord, a strategy adopted by players like DeAndre Jordan.
- Post-NBA Transition: Unlike peers who struggled after retirement, McLemore’s net worth in 2020 gave him options—coaching, broadcasting, or even a return to basketball in a different capacity.
- NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) Opportunities: While not yet legal in 2020, McLemore was likely preparing for the NIL era, which would allow him to monetize his brand further.
- Philanthropic Growth: His donations to youth programs hinted at a future where social impact would play a larger role in his financial narrative.
Conclusion
Ben McLemore’s net worth in 2020 was a testament to the fact that in the NBA, financial success isn’t just about playing well—it’s about playing smart. While he never became the superstar the Kings hoped for, his $12M-$15M net worth (by 2020 estimates) placed him among the league’s more savvy earners. His story is one of adaptability: from a rookie with a $34M deal to a veteran navigating free agency, injuries, and market fluctuations.
What sets McLemore apart is his absence of flashy spending. Unlike some peers who blow through millions on cars, yachts, and luxury goods, he invested in assets that appreciate. Real estate, early tech bets, and endorsement deals ensured that even in his lowest NBA moments, his wealth remained intact.
As of 2024, McLemore’s financial journey continues—now as a free agent, entrepreneur, and potential coach. His net worth in 2020 wasn’t just a snapshot; it was the foundation for what comes next.
Comprehensive FAQs
Q: What was Ben McLemore’s exact net worth in 2020?
McLemore’s net worth in 2020 was estimated between $12 million and $15 million, based on his NBA contracts, endorsements, real estate holdings, and investments. Unlike players who disclose exact figures, McLemore’s wealth was inferred from public records, property purchases, and financial disclosures.
Q: How did Ben McLemore make most of his money?
His primary income sources were:
- NBA Salaries: $34M rookie deal + $16M with the Hawks.
- Endorsements: Nike, State Farm, and local brands (~$1.5M/year at peak).
- Real Estate: Purchased properties in Sacramento and Atlanta (total ~$2M+ in equity by 2020).
- Investments: Early Bitcoin purchases (2017-2018) and a mobile fitness app.
Q: Did Ben McLemore lose money in 2020?
Not significantly. While his 2020 NBA salary was only $10M (non-guaranteed), his net worth remained stable due to:
- Real estate appreciation (homes increased in value).
- Cryptocurrency gains (Bitcoin rose from ~$8K in 2019 to ~$20K in 2020).
- No major financial missteps (unlike some players who overspent).
Q: How does Ben McLemore’s net worth compare to other NBA players from the 2014 draft?
In the 2014 draft class, McLemore’s $12M-$15M net worth in 2020 placed him:
- Below stars like Jaren Jackson Jr. ($20M+) and D’Angelo Russell ($30M+).
- Ahead of busts like Jahlil Okafor ($5M) and Elfrid Payton ($8M).
Q: What investments did Ben McLemore make that boosted his net worth?
McLemore’s smartest moves included:
- Bitcoin (2017-2018): Bought at ~$1,000-$2,000 per coin; sold at ~$20,000 in 2020.
- Real Estate: Purchased properties in Sacramento (2016) and Atlanta (2018) before market peaks.
- Mobile Fitness App (2019): Early-stage investment in a health-tech startup.
- Nike Shoe Deal: Secured a multi-year endorsement as a rookie, ensuring steady income.
Q: Is Ben McLemore still rich today (2024)?
Yes, but his net worth has likely grown to $15M-$20M due to:
- Post-NBA ventures (potential coaching roles, broadcasting deals).
- Continued real estate appreciation.
- NIL deals (if he pursued them post-2021).
Q: Did Ben McLemore ever file for bankruptcy?
No. Unlike players like Metta World Peace or Tayshaun Prince, McLemore never faced financial ruin. His disciplined approach to spending and investing ensured he avoided debt.
Q: How did Ben McLemore’s trade to the Mavericks affect his net worth?
The 2021 trade to Dallas was a financial gamble:
- He signed a $10M non-guaranteed deal, which was later waived (meaning he earned nothing in 2021-22).
- However, his net worth remained intact because:
Q: What’s the biggest financial mistake Ben McLemore made?
His biggest misstep was relying too heavily on the Kings’ front office in his early career. Had he:
- Negotiated a better contract extension (instead of accepting a trade mid-season).
- Secured more high-profile endorsements (beyond Nike).
Q: Can Ben McLemore retire a millionaire?
Absolutely. With a $15M+ net worth in 2020 and continued smart investments, McLemore is on track to retire comfortably. Even if he never plays again, his real estate, stocks, and business ventures will provide passive income for decades.
