Moses Malone’s estimated net worth was approximately $5 million at the time of his passing. His wealth came from his impressive 21-year career in basketball, during which he earned a $13.9 million salary.
Moses Malone revolutionized professional basketball with his groundbreaking transition from high school directly to the pros in 1974.
The Petersburg, Virginia native became a dominant force in both the ABA and NBA, earning the nickname “Chairman of the Boards” for his extraordinary rebounding abilities.
His 21-year professional career showcased an unprecedented combination of durability and excellence.
Malone’s crowning achievement came in 1983 when he led the 76ers to an NBA championship, earning both league and Finals MVP honors.
His famous “fo, fo, fo” prediction nearly came true as the Sixers lost just one playoff game en route to the title.
Malone’s impact on the game was immense; he earned three NBA MVP awards, made 12 NBA All-Star appearances, and revolutionized offensive rebounding.
His physical style of play and relentless work ethic made him a nightmare for opponents.
Despite standing 6’10”, Malone used his strength, positioning, and determination to dominate much taller centers.
He finished his career with 29,580 points and 17,834 rebounds, establishing himself as one of only three players to exceed 28,000 points and 17,000 rebounds in professional basketball history.
Moses Malone’s NBA Salary And Contracts Were Significant Contributors To His Net Worth
Over his 21-year professional career, Malone played for several NBA teams, including the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Bullets, Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks, and San Antonio Spurs.
During his time in the NBA, Malone earned a total salary of $13.9 million. This figure might seem modest compared to today’s NBA salaries, but it was substantial for his era.
Moreover, his first major contract came in 1974 when he signed with the ABA’s Utah Stars for $1 million over five years, a significant sum for a player straight out of high school.
Throughout his NBA career, Malone’s value continued to rise. His most lucrative contract came in 1982 when he signed a six-year, $13.2 million deal with the 76ers.
During his final years in the league, Malone earned substantial salaries even in reduced roles.
His last season with the Spurs in 1994-95 brought him $468,750.
Over his documented final seven seasons alone, Malone earned approximately $8.5 million in salary, equivalent to about $19.3 million in today’s dollars when adjusted for inflation.
While his complete career earnings aren’t fully documented due to the era he played in, Malone’s net worth at the time of his passing in 2015 was estimated to be around $5 million.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- His mother, Mary, raised him on her own in Petersburg, Virginia, while his father left the family when Moses was young due to alcohol-related issues.
- He was married to Alfreda Gill, but the pair divorced in 1992.
- Tragically, he passed away on September 13, 2015, due to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and was found in his hotel room in Norfolk, Virginia.
