Introduction
John Starks may not be a household name like Michael Jordan or LeBron James, but he is a basketball legend who rose to fame from humble beginnings. Starks was undrafted and was cut multiple times before finally finding success on the court. Despite the obstacles he faced, Starks didn’t give up, and his perseverance paid off. Today, he is worth millions of dollars, and his story is one that inspires many. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at John Starks’ net worth, how he made his money, and the lessons we can learn from his journey.
Early Life and Basketball Career
John Starks was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on August 10, 1965. He grew up in tough circumstances and had a troubled childhood. However, as a teenager, Starks discovered his talent for basketball, and he started playing at Tulsa Central High School. Despite his impressive skills, no colleges offered him a scholarship, and he ended up playing for a junior college. After two years, Starks transferred to Oklahoma State University, where he played for two seasons. However, he went undrafted in the 1988 NBA draft.
Starks’ NBA Career
After going undrafted, Starks spent several years playing in various leagues, including the World Basketball League, the Continental Basketball Association, and the United States Basketball League. In 1990, he finally got his big break when he signed with the New York Knicks. Initially, he was a bench player, but his playing time increased over time. In the 1992-1993 season, Starks became a starter and helped lead the Knicks to the NBA Finals.
Starks’ Career Achievements
During his time in the NBA, Starks achieved several milestones. He was a two-time NBA All-Star in 1994 and 1995 and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1993. He also holds the record for the most three-pointers made by a Knicks player in a single season. In addition, Starks played in 866 NBA games and scored a total of 10,829 points.
Starks’ Net Worth
John Starks’ net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. After retiring from the NBA, Starks went on to work in various businesses, including owning car dealerships and opening a chain of sports bars. He is also involved in several philanthropic activities, including helping underprivileged children pursue their education.
Lessons from Starks’ Journey
John Starks’ story is one that is full of lessons for anyone who wants to achieve success. One of the primary takeaways from his journey is perseverance. Despite facing numerous setbacks, Starks never gave up on his dream of playing in the NBA. He continued to work hard and improve his skills until he finally got his chance. Starks’ story also highlights the importance of taking risks and not being afraid to fail.
Off-the-Court Business Ventures
After retiring from basketball, John Starks ventured into several businesses. He started a chain of sports bars called John Starks’ Sports Grills in New York and Connecticut. He also owned several car dealerships, including a Honda dealership in Texas. In addition, Starks worked as a motivational speaker, sharing his story and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
Philanthropic Work
Aside from his business ventures, John Starks is involved in several philanthropic activities. He started the John Starks Foundation, which aims to help underprivileged children pursue their education. The foundation provides scholarships and other financial aid to students in need. Starks also supports other charitable organizations, such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Boys and Girls Club.
Legacy and Impact
John Starks’ impact on the game of basketball cannot be overstated. He was a fan favorite during his time in the NBA, and many Knicks fans still remember him fondly. Starks’ journey from undrafted player to NBA All-Star is a testament to his determination and hard work. He is a role model for anyone who wants to achieve success, both on and off the court.
Conclusion
John Starks’ journey from undrafted player to millionaire is a remarkable story of perseverance and hard work. Despite the obstacles he faced, he never gave up on his dream of playing in the NBA. Starks’ achievements on and off the court are an inspiration to many, and his legacy will continue to live on for years to come.
FAQs
1. How much is John Starks worth?
John Starks’ net worth is estimated to be around $20 million.
2. What is John Starks’ foundation?
John Starks’ foundation is a charitable organization that provides scholarships and financial aid to underprivileged students.
3. What businesses has John Starks ventured into after retiring from basketball?
John Starks has owned several car dealerships and started a chain of sports bars called John Starks’ Sports Grills.
4. Did John Starks win any awards during his NBA career?
Yes, Starks was a two-time NBA All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1993.
5. What is John Starks’ legacy in the game of basketball?
John Starks’ impact on the game of basketball cannot be overstated. He was a fan favorite during his time in the NBA, and his journey from undrafted player to NBA All-Star is a testament to his perseverance and hard work.