Game Changers: 5 NBA Stars Who Dominated Business After Retirement

Not all retired NBA stars fade into the background after hanging up their jerseys. Some step into new opportunities with the same drive they had on the court. Take Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal—their post-NBA careers are legendary for smart moves and massive fortunes. But there are others who, though less famous in this context, are quietly making a big splash in the business world. Let's look at Junior Bridgeman. This former NBA player, not often mentioned, is worth more than Shaq himself—$600 million, to be exact. He didn't just play the game; he played the investment game too. While still in the league, he started collecting Wendy's franchises, eventually owning over 160. Bridgeman's secret? Diversifying his investments to ride out financial storms. Next is Grant Hill, a name that resonates with both basketball and business success. With a net worth of $250 million, his moves off the court are just as impressive as his moves on it. He started with a massive $80 million deal with Fila in the ‘90s, which added a steady $10 million every year. Hill also dives into real estate, art collecting, and philanthropy, showing that his smarts go beyond the court.David Robinson, also known as The Admiral, is another example. With a net worth of $200 million, he didn't just shine as a player for the San Antonio Spurs; he became a financial mastermind. His private equity ventures through Admiral Capital raised $115 million and acquired $350 million in real estate assets. What sets David apart is his generosity. He gives back 10% of his profits to charity, proving that success isn't just about making money but also making a difference. Vince Carter, known for his amazing dunks on the court, is similarly impressive off it. With a net worth of $110 million, he started with smart brand partnerships and moved into the restaurant business. He sold Vince Carter's restaurant for $4. 3 million in 2017, showing his business smarts. Carter also dived into sports media, using his expertise to become a familiar face on networks like TNT and ESPN. Finally, there’s Tracy McGrady, Vince Carter’s cousin and a Hall of Famer himself. With a net worth of $70 million, he’s showed business acumen by joining a minority ownership group for the Buffalo Bills. Post-retirement, he’s invested in tech (Dasdak) and water business (Blue-04), proving he's got the right mindset for success even off the court. These players didn't just let their basketball careers define them. They translated their on-court success into business smarts, showing that their legacies continue to evolve long after they've left the game.