Retiring from the NBA is a bittersweet moment for many players. Take Derek Fisher for example. After winning five NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, Fisher retired from professional basketball in 2014. But what do most former NBA players do after their playing days are over?
The transition from being a professional athlete to an ordinary citizen can be difficult for some people, especially when there’s such a big gap between the life of an NBA player and that of a regular person. Fortunately, there are several different options available to former NBA stars who have hung up their shoes.
From entering politics to becoming an entrepreneur, former players can find plenty of ways to remain active in the sports world or explore new career paths. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what former NBA players do after they retire and how they make use of their newfound free time.
Moving Into Broadcasting
When you think of life after retirement for NBA players, it’s often compared to a road stretching out into the horizon. Where will their career take them next? It’s like staring down an uncharted path, uncertain of what lies ahead.
This is the story of many NBA players and their journey to discover new careers after leaving the court. One common path many have chosen is moving into broadcasting. For those who have spent years perfecting their craft and becoming knowledgeable about the game, becoming a broadcaster can be the perfect way to transition out of playing professionally. They can bring their years of experience and expertise to television or radio broadcasts, making them indispensable resources for viewers and listeners alike.
Broadcasting can also provide former players with a steady income as they adjust to life away from competition and team camaraderie. With broadcasting opportunities available in numerous sports across various platforms, it’s no surprise that so many retired players choose this option when deciding on a post-retirement career.
With knowledge acquired through experience as professional basketball players, coupled with their infectious enthusiasm for the game, retired NBAers can easily become successful broadcasters. As much as they may miss playing basketball, they now have an opportunity to stay involved with their sport in a different capacity while still enjoying all that comes along with being part of the NBA community.
Becoming Investor/Entrepreneurs
When it comes to life after retirement from the NBA, many players are taking a different approach than their predecessors. Rather than just transitioning into broadcasting, some are becoming investor-entrepreneurs. For instance, former NBA star Kevin Garnett has reportedly made over $200 million in investments since his departure from the court.
Garnett’s story is a great example of how ex-players can capitalize off of their playing days by navigating the world of investing and entrepreneurship. Whether they invest in companies or launch their own businesses, they can leverage the fame they achieved while playing to grow their venture capital and portfolio management skills. These players are also using their networks and connections to find new opportunities that they wouldn’t have had access to before.
This new wave of ex-NBA stars shows no signs of slowing down; instead, more and more are joining this growing trend every day. By applying the discipline and work ethic that made them successful on the court to their business ventures, these former athletes are able to reap the rewards for all their hard work. With so many players taking advantage of this opportunity, it’s clear that becoming an investor or entrepreneur after retiring from professional basketball is increasingly becoming the norm for many athletes today.
Becoming Coaches
With their playing days behind them, what do NBA players do next? Many continue to stay around the sport, but in a different capacity. From becoming coaches to exploring politics, retired NBA players have many job options. In this section, let’s look at the coaching route that many former NBA players take after retirement.
The transition from player to coach is one of the most popular paths taken by ex-NBA players, and for good reason. Coaches get to be involved with the game they love while still being able to impart knowledge and experience they’ve gained as a player. Plus, they can often stay in close contact with other players and give back to the game that gave them so much.
Many successful ex-players have gone on to become great coaches too, such as Jason Kidd and Derek Fisher. They have been able to use their experience as a player to create more successful teams in their respective roles as head coach or assistant coach. There’s also something special about seeing an former player become a coach; it really brings out their passion for the game and shows just how much they care about basketball even after their playing days are over.
Ex-NBA players who choose this route gain both recognition and respect from those in the basketball world for staying true to the sport that made them famous. For these reasons, becoming a coach is an excellent opportunity for retired NBA players who want to remain involved with the sport in some way.
Exploring Politics
Exploring politics is an option for NBA players post-retirement. It can be a daunting venture, but many have taken the plunge and found success. Former NBA All-Star Tracy McGrady is a perfect example: he recently successfully ran for a seat in the Florida House of Representatives in 2020.
Politics often require immense dedication and time commitment, so it isn’t something that all retired basketball stars can take on. However, those who do are joining a long line of former athletes who have made their mark in politics; legends like Bill Bradley, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Kevin Johnson are just some of the many examples.
Moreover, players who enter politics bring with them an inspiring story of perseverance and determination which resonates with constituents. Their experiences as professional athletes provide them with unique insight into how to make sure everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed—something that can be especially important during trying times such as these. Transitioning into the next section then–moving into the front office–we will explore how many former players have gone on to become successful executives.
Moving Into The Front Office
A move into the front office can be a slam dunk for NBA players seeking to continue their career after retirement! It’s an opportunity that is as grand and glamorous as any trophy they could ever win. Here are just a few reasons why this transition is becoming increasingly popular:
- Players can explore the business side of basketball and gain knowledge in marketing, scouting, and other areas.
- Coaching experience isn’t necessary, as front office work is more about leadership.
- It provides players an opportunity to stay connected to the game without having to compete on the court.
- There is also potential for advancement opportunities within organizations.
The front office route offers many benefits for NBA players who have retired from the game. It gives them the chance to learn more about the inner workings of basketball, use their skills in a different way, and stay involved with the sport in an entirely new capacity. Plus, it gives them a platform to apply their knowledge and expertise outside of their playing days – allowing them to continue making an impact on the court even when they’re no longer taking part in it.
Setting Up Foundations/Charities
The sixth activity that former NBA players may pursue after retirement is setting up foundations or charities. With their newfound free time, many athletes opt to give back to their local communities and help those in need. This can take the form of charities that raise money for a particular cause or foundation that focus on providing educational and healthcare opportunities to underprivileged individuals.
Setting up foundations or charities offers a number of benefits. Firstly, it allows former NBA players to use their influence in order to make a real difference in the world. Additionally, they can feel proud knowing that they are doing something meaningful with their lives after retirement. Lastly, these activities provide an opportunity for them to stay connected with the game they love while also making an impact off the court.
In addition to giving back through charitable organizations, former NBA players may also use their platforms as a way to inspire others and share stories about overcoming adversity. For example, some athletes have used their experience to create motivational books that help empower readers who are going through difficult times. By using such outlets, retired NBA players can help create positive change both on and off the court.
Making Comebacks
Coincidentally, at the same time that NBA players are retiring, some may find themselves returning to the court. Making comebacks is a trend among former professional basketball players that have decided to hang up their jerseys.
Most of these return engagements are short-lived and serve as a way for the player to share their experience and knowledge with younger generations. Players may also want to re-establish their legacy or reunite with their former team, both of which can be accomplished through making a comeback.
For some players, this could even mean getting back into the game in a more permanent capacity – such as becoming an assistant coach or part-owner. As we will discuss in our next section, this is another avenue that retired NBA players can explore when it comes to post-career opportunities. Transitioning from playing on the court to helping behind the scenes is just one of many paths available for retired ballers looking for what’s next after leaving the NBA.
Becoming Agents
Many retired NBA players have the potential to give back to the community in a variety of different ways. One great example is becoming an agent. After their playing days are over, some former players decide to pursue a career in sports representation, giving them the opportunity to use their knowledge and experience as former athletes to help others in the industry.
The transition from athlete to agent can be a difficult one, as it requires having a deep understanding of the sport and its current contract system. Furthermore, agents must have strong communication skills, business acumen and negotiation tactics. Fortunately, there are several programs available that provide training and resources for these aspiring agents that can help guide them along the path.
One such program is Agent Academy created by former Denver Nuggets player Jerome Williams. The program offers online classes and mentorship opportunities with current agents and industry professionals who have been successful in their own careers. Through this program, retired players can learn about how to effectively represent athletes, navigate contracts, manage client expectations and build relationships within the sports world. This invaluable information can help make the transition from athlete to agent much smoother so they can serve as advocates for current players while also creating a successful career for themselves after retirement from basketball.
Giving Back To The Community
The flame of hope still burns brightly in some NBA players, even after their retirement. Like a beacon, they strive to give back to their community and become role models for the next generation. This ninth step in what NBA players do after they retire is an inspiring one: giving back to the community.
There are countless ways that retired NBA players can give back to the community. Some players choose to become mentors or coaches for younger athletes, helping them hone their skills and prepare for the future. Others may choose to get involved with charities and fundraisers, supporting causes that are important to them or their former teammates. Finally, many retired NBA players take advantage of their newfound free time by volunteering at homeless shelters or soup kitchens.
No matter how they choose to give back, retired NBA players are always providing inspiration and motivation for future generations of athletes. Their commitment and dedication leave a lasting legacy that will benefit the world for years to come. As these heroes continue their journey towards personal trainers, it is important that we remember the impact they have made on our communities and show our appreciation every chance we get.
Becoming Personal Trainers
It’s a well-known fact that basketball players, as soon as they retire from the NBA, immediately become personal trainers. After all, what better way to use their hard-earned skills than by teaching others how to shoot hoops like a pro? It’s the perfect job for them – it pays well and it allows them to stay involved in the sport they love!
But why stop there? Why not use their vast experience and knowledge of the game to help others reach their fitness goals? That’s exactly what many retired NBA players do. From helping gym-goers with their exercises to coaching up-and-coming athletes, these former pros are now using their time and talent to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
At the same time, these ex-players are also using their newfound expertise to promote healthy living and exercise within their local communities. Whether it be through public speaking engagements or working with youth organizations, they’re inspiring people of all ages to lead an active lifestyle. And that’s something that should be applauded! After all, we could all benefit from following in the footsteps of those who have dedicated so much time and effort into making basketball great. Transitioning seamlessly into motivational speaking is just another way for these individuals to continue making a difference.
Becoming Motivational Speakers
For many NBA players, retirement can be a daunting transition. With the sudden change in lifestyle and career path, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as you try to find a new purpose. One of the most popular paths that retired NBA players take is becoming motivational speakers. This is an opportunity for them to use their platform to inspire others. It’s also a chance for them to reflect on their own experiences and share what they’ve learned with the world.
Take former NBA star Metta World Peace, for example: after retiring from basketball, he became a motivational speaker and was able to share his story of success and failure in order to inspire others to never give up on themselves or their dreams. He talks about how he went through difficult times during his basketball career but kept pushing forward despite the odds. His story is one of perseverance and resilience, which makes him an inspiring figure for those looking for motivation in their own lives.
Motivational speaking is also a great way for retired NBA players to stay connected with the game they love while earning an income. It gives them the opportunity to stay involved in basketball without having to physically play it anymore. With this newfound freedom, they can focus more on inspiring others instead of competing against them. TIP: If you’re looking for ways to stay connected with your sport after retirement, consider becoming a motivational speaker! Not only will you have the opportunity to impact people’s lives, but you’ll also be able to keep your passion alive while making money at the same time.
Joining The Media
Believe it or not, one in five NBA players turn to the media after they retire. Joining the media as a commentator, analyst, or reporter is a great way for former players to stay close to the game without leaving their homes.
The transition from playing basketball to joining the media has become easier with more and more opportunities available. In 2019, ESPN hired 18 former NBA stars as analysts and commentators. These ex-players are able to bring their unique perspective on the game from their experience playing at the highest level.
Joining the media gives former players an opportunity to stay involved with basketball, while also having flexibility with work hours and location. The connections made during their career can provide them with great opportunities in broadcasting and other roles in the media industry. Former players are also great role models who can impart invaluable knowledge on upcoming generations through broadcasting and commentating.
Returning To College
After years of playing in the NBA, many athletes look to return to college after retirement. This is often a great opportunity for former players to further their education and explore new career paths. Here are five ways NBA players have taken advantage of this opportunity:
Finishing their undergraduate degree: Many athletes opt to return to school and complete their undergraduate degrees. This is especially beneficial for those who did not finish college before entering the NBA.
Pursuing post-graduate studies: Some retired players take the chance to pursue post-graduate studies in different fields such as business, law, or public policy.
Teaching basketball classes: Many retired players have chosen to give back by teaching basketball classes at universities or youth centers. They use their experience and knowledge of the game to pass on valuable lessons about basketball as well as life in general.
Becoming assistant coaches: Several former NBA players have chosen to stay involved with the game by becoming assistant coaches at college teams or other levels of basketball competition.
Mentoring student-athletes: A number of retired NBA players have been able to share their wisdom and experiences with younger generations by becoming mentors for student-athletes in college programs around the country.
Returning to college allows former NBA players to gain an education they may not have had previously, while also giving them an opportunity to stay connected with the game they love and impart their knowledge on younger generations of athletes. With all these possibilities, exploring business ventures after retirement can be a lucrative option as well.
Exploring Business Ventures
For many NBA players, retiring is a time to explore new horizons. After a lifetime of dedication and hard work, they have the opportunity to pursue their passions in different ways. One option that is often overlooked, however, is pursuing business ventures.
By leveraging their platform, resources and contacts from their time in the NBA, former players can create successful businesses and invest in lucrative opportunities. Many ex-players develop specialties such as real estate investments or venture capital firms. They also leverage their extensive networks to benefit themselves financially and professionally beyond basketball.
These ventures can provide significant financial rewards as well as great satisfaction for former NBA stars who are looking for something more than just playing basketball all the time. With the right amount of support, these types of projects can be incredibly rewarding and help them transition into life after the NBA with ease. Now that they’ve taken care of their business interests, it’s time to look at another passion: music careers!
Pursuing Music Careers
The end of a professional basketball career can be the start of a new chapter for NBA players. After their days on the court have come to an end, many choose to transition into the world of music. They may find that exploring their creative side is not only rewarding, but also just as challenging as their time in the NBA. Here are four ways former players are pursuing music after retiring from basketball:
Producing and creating their own music. These athletes often have access to resources and connections that can help them make their artistic dreams a reality, allowing them to pursue a career in music production or songwriting.
Collaborating with established artists. For some, having the opportunity to work alongside already successful musicians can be both exciting and inspiring. And it’s an effective way for retired NBA stars to gain further exposure in the music industry.
Performing live concerts or shows. It’s not uncommon for former basketball players to go on tour after retirement and perform at various venues around the country.
Pursuing musical opportunities with endorsements or commercials. This route offers ex-ballers another way to use their fame and creative talents for lucrative opportunities, such as endorsing a product or performing in TV commercials and advertisements.
These possibilities demonstrate how versatile these athletes can be post-retirement, and how they can expand their horizons while continuing to be successful in other areas beyond the hardwood court. With no shortage of options available, former NBA players have limitless possibilities when it comes to exploring career paths in music after they hang up their jerseys for good
Conclusion
Although many NBA players transition into a variety of different careers after retirement, the one thing that remains constant is the need for hard work and dedication. As these athletes move forward in their lives, they must be willing to put in the effort to make a successful transition.
No matter what path they choose, whether it’s becoming an investor or entrepreneur, joining the media, returning to college, exploring business ventures, or pursuing music careers, they must be prepared to work hard and face any obstacles that may come their way. Even if a career choice doesn’t turn out as expected, former NBA players have the ability to adapt and discover new paths.
The life post-NBA is often unpredictable but also filled with opportunity. With a combination of passion and determination these athletes can find success in anything they set their minds to; whether it’s on or off the court.
