Delonte West was once a promising basketball player who played in the NBA for eight seasons. He earned millions of dollars in salary and endorsements, and was part of some successful teams. However, his career and life took a downward spiral due to personal and financial problems, mental health issues, and substance abuse. In this article, we will explore the net worth of Delonte West, how he made his fortune, and what happened to him after he left the NBA.
How Delonte West Became a Basketball Star
Delonte West was born on July 26, 1983, in Washington, D.C. He grew up in a life of poverty, and early on, he already battled with bipolar disorder. At the age of 14, West sank into a depression and attempted suicide multiple times
Despite his struggles, West found solace in basketball. He attended Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Maryland, where he teamed up with fellow future NBA player Eddie Basden. He led his team to their first state tournament appearance and was named the Washington Post All Met Basketball Player of the Year in 2001
West then went to Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, where he formed one of the best backcourts in the country with Jameer Nelson. He averaged 18.9 points and 6.7 assists per game as a junior, and helped his team go 27–0 in the regular season and reach the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament in 2004. He was also named a third-team All-American by the NABC and Sporting News
West decided to enter the 2004 NBA draft, where he was selected by the Boston Celtics as the 24th overall pick. He signed a three-year contract worth $2.8 million with the Celtics, and began his professional career.
How Delonte West Made His Money in the NBA
West played for four teams in the NBA: the Boston Celtics, the Seattle SuperSonics, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Dallas Mavericks. He earned a total of $14 million in salary during his eight-year career, according to Spotrac
His highest-earning season was in 2009-10, when he made $4.25 million with the Cavaliers. He also had some endorsement deals with brands like Reebok and Spalding
West was a versatile player who could play both point guard and shooting guard positions. He was known for his defensive skills, outside shooting, and playmaking abilities. He had some memorable moments in the NBA, such as scoring a career-high 31 points against the Los Angeles Lakers in 2006, hitting a game-winning shot against the Charlotte Bobcats in 2008, and being part of the Cavaliers team that won 66 games and reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2009.
However, West also had some controversies and challenges during his NBA career. He was involved in a rumor that he had an affair with LeBron James’ mother Gloria James in 2010, which he denied6 He was arrested for carrying three loaded guns on a motorcycle in 2009, and pleaded guilty to weapons charges in 2010. He was suspended by the NBA for 10 games as a result7 He also missed some games due to injuries, personal reasons, or team disciplinary actions.
What Happened to Delonte West After He Left the NBA
West’s NBA career ended in 2012, when he was waived by the Mavericks after two suspensions for conduct detrimental to the team. He then tried to revive his basketball career overseas and in the NBA G League, but he did not find much success.
West’s life after basketball was marked by hardship and tragedy. He struggled with money problems, divorce, homelessness, drug addiction, and mental breakdowns. He was seen begging for money on the streets several times, and was involved in violent altercations that were caught on video8
Many people expressed concern and sympathy for West’s situation, including his former teammates, coaches, fans, and celebrities. Some of them tried to help him get back on his feet, such as Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, who picked him up from a gas station and paid for his rehab treatment in 2020.
According to Cuban, West is doing much better now after completing his rehab program. He is working at a drug recovery center in Florida, where he is also taking part in therapy sessions and basketball activities. He has reconnected with his family and friends, and has expressed gratitude for the support he received.
Conclusion
Delonte West net worth is estimated to be $1 thousand as of 2021, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This is a far cry from the millions he earned as an NBA player, and a sad reflection of his downfall. However, West is not giving up on his life, and is trying to overcome his challenges and rebuild his future. He is an example of how fame and fortune can be fleeting, but also how hope and resilience can be enduring.
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