Larry Bird's Impressive Net Worth and Legacy

Larry Bird dominated basketball in the 1980s, leading the Boston Celtics to 3 titles and winning 3 MVPs. The legendary player also found success as a coach and executive for the Indiana Pacers. But how much is Larry Bird's estimated net worth in 2023? Let's explore his journey to riches, covering his income streams, career earnings, endorsements, investments and philanthropy.

But, before going into details, let’s have a loo at basic information regarding him.

| Also Read: Lebron James' Wealth

What is Larry Bird's Net Worth in 2023?

Larry Bird's estimated net worth in 2023 is approximately $75 million, per Celebrity Net Worth. This derives from his NBA playing career, coaching/executive roles, endorsements and investments. His net worth has grown substantially since retiring as a player in 1992 when he was worth $18 million.

Annual Income 

Larry Bird's annual income in 2023 is estimated to be around $3 million. It consists of his income from his endorsement deals and his investments. He does not have a salary from the NBA anymore as he stepped down as the president of basketball operations of the Indiana Pacers in 2017. He does not have a coaching salary as he retired from coaching in 2000.

Career Earnings 

Larry Bird earned a total of $24.8 million from his NBA salary during his 13 seasons in the league. He played for the Boston Celtics from 1979 to 1992 winning three championships and three MVP awards. He also earned an additional $45 million from his coaching and executive career with the Indiana Pacers from 1997 to 2017. He was named the Coach of the Year in 1998 and the Executive of the Year in 2012.

| Also Read: Luka Doncic Net Worth

Endorsement Deals 

Throughout his NBA career and retirement, Larry Bird inked endorsement deals with various high-profile brands. His most noteworthy agreements included:

1 - Converse

Bird signed with the shoe company in 1980 as a rookie, earning $400K annually through 1989. He wore Converse on-court, appeared in ads and had the shared Converse Weapon signature line with rival Magic Johnson.

2 - McDonald's

Bird signed a 1984 deal alongside Magic Johnson and Julius Erving with the fast food chain worth $500K per year until 1988. He featured in numerous McDonald's commercials and promotions, most famously the "Nothing But Net" ad with Michael Jordan in 1993.

3 - Spalding

Bird penned a 4-year $4 million deal with the sports equipment company for royalties on Spalding basketball sales after retirement in 1992. He also starred in multiple Spalding ads and catalogs.

4 - Pepsi

Bird signed with the soft drink brand in 1997 upon becoming Indiana Pacers coach earning $2 million annually through 2000. He appeared in various Pepsi commercials and billboards alongside other NBA figures.

5 - Anheuser-Busch 

In 2003 with the Pacers front office, Bird scored a Budweiser/Bud Light endorsement deal worth $1 million per year through 2017 promoting the beer brands at events.

| Also Read: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Net Worth

Cash & Other Investments 

Bird boasts a diverse investment portfolio spanning real estate, restaurants, hotels, golf courses and more. Major assets include:

1 - Real Estate

A $4.8 million Naples, Florida mansion bought in 1998, now worth around $10 million. A $2.3 million 2003 Indianapolis penthouse valued at $5 million. And a $300K 1988 French Lick, Indiana farm, now valued at $1 million.

2 - Restaurants

The $2 million Larry Bird's Boston Connection eatery opened in Indianapolis in 1991. The $1 million Larry Bird's MVP Grill & Bar launched in Terre Haute in 2006. And stakes in various chains like Stacked Pickle.

3 - Hotels

The $20 million West Baden Springs Hotel was purchased in 1996. The $10 million French Lick Springs Hotel was bought the same year. And shares of Conrad Indianapolis, Hilton Garden Inn and more.

4 - Golf Courses

The $15 million Pete Dye Course at French Lick acquired in 2007. The $10 million Donald Ross Course at French Lick also obtained in 2007. And ownership of Brickyard Crossing, the Sagamore and other courses.

| Also Read: Michael Jordan's Net Worth

Larry Bird Philanthropic Work 

In addition to his sports prowess, Larry Bird is known for extensive philanthropic work benefiting various causes and organizations. Major initiatives include:

1 - Larry Bird Scholarship 

Established in 1987, the program awards $5K annually to one male and female student from French Lick, Indiana exhibiting academic, athletic and community excellence. It has aided over 60 students.

2 - Larry Bird Foundation 

Founded in 1992, the nonprofit supports underprivileged Indiana children and families via healthcare, education, sports and social services. It also backs aligned organizations.

3 - NBA Cares 

Bird participates in the NBA's community outreach program, joining various events and initiatives around important issues like education, health, youth development and diversity.

4 - Other Donations 

Bird has given sums to Indiana State University, the Red Cross, Riley Hospital, Make-A-Wish Foundation and more over the years.

• $500K to Indiana State University to renovate their basketball arena and create a statue of him.
• $100K to the American Red Cross to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
• $50K to the Riley Hospital for Children to support their pediatric cancer research.
• $25K to the Make-A-Wish Foundation to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses.

| Also Read: Anthony Davis Net Worth

Larry Bird's Journey to Success 

Larry Bird's journey to legendary player, coach, executive and philanthropist status represents one of sports' most inspirational tales.

Childhood and College 

Born in 1956 in West Baden Springs, Indiana to a poor family, Bird developed a passion for basketball early on. He averaged 31 points and 21 rebounds as a Springs Valley High School senior, winning sectionals.

Bird left Indiana University in 1974 after one month, returning home as a garbage collector for a year before enrolling at Indiana State in 1975. From 1976-1979, Bird led them to three straight NCAA tournaments averaging 30.3 points and 13.3 rebounds and winning the 1979 College Player of the Year award. He also took Indiana State to the 1979 title game against Magic Johnson's Michigan State cementing the famed rivalry despite losing.

NBA Career and Championships 

Drafted 6th overall by the Boston Celtics in 1978, Bird inked a record $3.25 million 5-year rookie contract before joining the team in 1979.

Bird quickly became a superstar, winning Rookie of the Year and reaching the conference finals while transforming the Celtics into a 61-21 team. He spearheaded three titles in 1981, 1984 and 1986, winning Finals MVP each time. He also captured three straight regular season MVPs from 1984-1986, joining Russell and Chamberlain.

Playing from 1979-1992, Bird averaged 24.3 points, 10 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.7 steals over his Celtics tenure. He amassed 12 All-Star nods, 10 All-NBA First Team selections, three All-Defensive Second Team picks, two Three-Point Contest wins, one Olympic gold in 1992 and a host of NBA records.

Persistent back issues forced Bird's 1992 retirement as one of the most accomplished players ever.

| Also Read: Stephen Curry Net Worth

Coaching and Executive Career 

Bird returned to the NBA as Indiana Pacers head coach in 1997 on a $7.5 million 3-year contract. He led three straight playoff runs including a 2000 Finals showing winning Coach of the Year in 1998 as the first person to capture MVP and Coach of the Year. He retired from coaching in 2000 upon contract fulfillment.

In 2003, Bird assumed the Pacers' president of basketball operations role on a $4 million 4-year deal. He improved the team's roster and culture drafting the likes of Paul George and Roy Hibbert while appointing Frank Vogel as head coach. He also faced challenges like the infamous 2004 Malice at the Palace brawl.

Citing health, Bird stepped down in 2012 but returned after a year off inking another 4-year Pacers deal. He managed basketball operations until retiring again in 2017, though remaining as an advisor until 2019. He became the first to win both MVP and Executive of the Year.

Final Take 

With an estimated $75 million net worth in 2023, Larry Bird is among the wealthiest NBA players and executives ever. His fortune stems from his playing days, coaching/executive roles, endorsements and investments.

Bird has also extensively given back via philanthropic support for Indiana students, children, families and more in need. His donations have benefited educational and medical causes across his home state.

Larry Bird's journey from humble Indiana roots to basketball glory, business success and generosity exemplifies one of sports' most inspirational tales. His skills, passion and character make him a role model admirably epitomizing greatness on and off the court.

| Also Read: Kyrie Irving Net Worth

FAQs 

Q: What was Larry Bird's highest salary?

Bird's highest salary was $2.3 million in 1990-91 and 1991-92, his final 2 seasons with Boston.

Q: What was Larry Bird's salary by year?

Q: How many championship rings does Larry Bird have?

Bird won 3 NBA championship rings with the Boston Celtics in 1981, 1984 and 1986.

Q: What position did Larry Bird play?

Bird played small forward and power forward but could also play shooting guard or point guard. He was praised for his versatility.