Kenny Smith Net Worth 2024, also known as “The Jet,” is a former NBA champion and a respected basketball analyst whose net worth in 2024 is estimated at $22 million. His wealth is a combination of his NBA career earnings, his ongoing salary from TNT’s Inside the NBA, and various other sources of income.
Key Facts About Kenny Smith
- Net Worth: $22 million in 2024
- Annual Salary: $4 million from TNT’s Inside the NBA
- NBA Career: 10 seasons from 1987 to 1997
- NBA Championships: 2 titles with the Houston Rockets (1994 and 1995)
- Career Statistics: 12.8 points per game, 5.5 assists per game
- Broadcasting Role: Analyst on Inside the NBA since 1998
How Did Kenny Smith Build His $22 Million Net Worth?
Kenny Smith’s net worth of $22 million is primarily the result of his 10-year NBA career, which earned him approximately $13.2 million in salary, and his ongoing role as an analyst on TNT’s Inside the NBA, where he earns a reported $4 million annually.
The Start of Kenny Smith’s Career
Born on March 8, 1965, in Queens, New York, Kenny Smith’s basketball journey began at Archbishop Molloy High School, where he earned a spot as a McDonald’s All-American in 1983. He went on to play for the University of North Carolina, where he starred alongside Michael Jordan under coach Dean Smith. Smith was selected by the Sacramento Kings as the sixth overall pick in the 1987 NBA Draft.
Kenny Smith’s NBA Career Highlights
Smith’s NBA career was highlighted by his time with the Houston Rockets (1990-1996), where he won two NBA Championships in 1994 and 1995. Known for his impressive shooting and playmaking ability, Smith retired in 1997 with career averages of 12.8 points and 5.5 assists per game.
Transition to Broadcasting and Its Impact
After retiring from the NBA, Smith transitioned into broadcasting in 1998, joining Inside the NBA on TNT as a key analyst. He quickly became known for his insightful commentary and engaging personality, working alongside fellow analysts Ernie Johnson Jr., Charles Barkley, and Shaquille O’Neal. Smith’s long tenure on the show, which has won multiple Sports Emmy Awards, has significantly contributed to his financial success.
Additional Income Streams
In addition to his TNT salary, Kenny Smith’s income sources include:
- NCAA Tournament Commentary: Smith frequently provides commentary during the NCAA Basketball Tournament.
- Speaking Engagements: He speaks at various events and functions.
- Brand Endorsements: Smith has engaged in various sponsorships and partnerships throughout his career.
- NBA Career Earnings: His earnings from playing in the NBA add a considerable sum to his net worth.
Personal Life and Its Financial Impact
Smith’s personal life includes two marriages. His first marriage produced two children, including daughter Kayla Brianna, an R&B singer, and son K.J., who played basketball at the University of North Carolina. His second marriage was to model Gwendolyn Osborne, which lasted from 2006 to 2018 and resulted in two more children. These family commitments, along with divorce settlements, have impacted his financial portfolio.
Kenny Smith’s Career Achievements
Smith’s NBA career stats include:
- Total Points: 9,397 (12.8 points per game)
- Assists: 4,073 (5.5 assists per game)
- Field Goal Percentage: 48%
- Three-Point Percentage: 39.9%
- Free Throw Percentage: 82.9%
Notable achievements:
- 2x NBA Champion (1994, 1995)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1988)
- Consensus First-Team All-American (1987)
- First-Team All-ACC (1987)
Recent Developments
In 2022, Smith secured a long-term contract extension with Warner Bros. Discovery Sports, solidifying his position on Inside the NBA for the foreseeable future. This contract renewal has played a crucial role in boosting his wealth, ensuring financial security for years to come.
Kenny Smith in the Headlines
In December 2024, Kenny Smith participated in a free-throw shooting contest against ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith during the 2024 Emirates NBA Cup semifinals. The event, which featured entertainment segments with Shaquille O’Neal, drew significant public attention, reinforcing Smith’s continued prominence in the basketball world.
Carlos is a seasoned writer with a passion for entertainment and celebrity culture. He enjoys researching and sharing fascinating stories about stars, their wealth, and life achievements.