Bill Russell is one of the most accomplished basketball players in history, having won 11 championships as a player and two more as a coach. His net worth has been estimated at around $10 million dollars. But just how did he amass this fortune? Let’s take a look at his career highlights, investments, charity work and business ventures to get a better understanding of Bill Russell’s net worth.
Income Sources for Bill Russell
The bulk of Bill Russell’s wealth comes from his long and successful playing career. He played 13 seasons in the NBA with the Boston Celtics, where he earned an average annual salary of over $100,000. After retirement, he went on to become a successful coach and commentator which also added to his wealth. Additionally, he had several lucrative endorsement deals during his playing days including those with Nike and Coca-Cola.
His Career Highlights
During his time in the NBA, Bill Russell was named MVP five times and was selected to 12 All-Star teams. He won 11 titles with the Celtics and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1975. He also represented the USA in multiple international competitions such as the 1956 Olympics and the 1960 World Championship. His legacy as one of the greatest players ever still stands today.
Real Estate Investments and Assets
Over the years, Bill Russell has invested in real estate properties across the US. He owns houses in Los Angeles, California; San Diego, California; Portland, Oregon; Seattle, Washington; and Brainerd, Minnesota. In addition, he holds some investment portfolios including stocks and bonds.
Charity Work by Bill Russell
Throughout his life, Bill Russell has contributed heavily to numerous charities and causes. In 2020, he donated $3 million dollars to various organizations supporting African American civil rights movements. He also founded the “BRC” foundation that raises funds for various charitable activities such as providing medical care to children living in poverty or helping low income families buy school supplies.
Philanthropy Efforts of Bill Russell
In 2013, Bill Russell received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Barack Obama for his philanthropic efforts. In 2016, he opened up The William F. Russell Jr., Community Center in Portland, Oregon that serves local students in the area with afterschool programs, computer labs and other services. Additionally, he has participated in campaigns raising awareness about issues like homelessness and police brutality against minorities.
Business Ventures of Bill Russell
Aside from being a professional athlete and philanthropist, Bill Russell has also started several business ventures. He established his own wine label called “Elevate” which produces premium red wines from Napa Valley vineyards. He has also launched a furniture line called “William F. Russell Furniture Collection”. Recently, he ventured into sports memorabilia sales with his company “Russell Collectibles”.
Estimates for His Net Worth
Based on all these sources of income, it can be estimated that Bill Russell’s current net worth is around $10 million dollars. This includes salaries from his playing and coaching careers, earnings from endorsements, real estate investments and assets, profits from business ventures and donations from charity work.
Conclusion on Bill Russell’s Wealth
From humble beginnings to becoming one of the most recognizable names in basketball history, Bill Russell has achieved great success both on and off the court. With a net worth estimated at around $10 million dollars, he remains one of the wealthiest former athletes alive today.
Further Reading on Famous Athletes’ Net Worth
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