Desmond Mason is a name that resonates with basketball fans and art enthusiasts alike. With a net worth of $8 million, Mason has made his mark as a former NBA player and a successful artist. From winning the 2001 NBA Slam Dunk Contest to becoming a celebrated painter, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this article, we’ll explore Desmond Mason’s net worth, his NBA career, his transition into art, and his personal life.
Desmond Mason’s Net Worth: At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $8 million |
| Primary Income | NBA career earnings, art sales, and gallery ownership |
| NBA Career Earnings | $37.6 million |
| Highest Salary | $8 million (2006-2007 season) |
| Art Career | Successful painter and gallery owner; works displayed in U.S. galleries |
Early Life and Collegiate Career
Desmond Mason was born on October 11, 1977, in Waxahachie, Texas. From a young age, he showed a passion for both basketball and art.
Key Highlights:
- High School: Attended Waxahachie High School, where he excelled in basketball and academics.
- College: Played for Oklahoma State University (OSU) and led the Cowboys to the Elite Eight in 2000.
- Art Major: Studied studio art at OSU, honing his skills in painting and drawing.
Mason’s talent on the court and his love for art set the stage for his unique career path.
NBA Career
Desmond Mason’s NBA career spanned 10 years, from 2000 to 2009. He was known for his athleticism, dunking ability, and solid mid-range game.
Key Milestones:
- Drafted: Selected 17th overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 2000 NBA Draft.
- Slam Dunk Champion: Won the 2001 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, becoming the first Sonics player to do so.
- Teams Played For:
- Seattle SuperSonics (2000-2003)
- Milwaukee Bucks (2003-2005, 2007-2008)
- New Orleans Hornets (2005-2007)
- Oklahoma City Thunder (2008-2009)
- Best Season: Averaged 17.2 points per game during the 2004-2005 season with the Milwaukee Bucks.
- Career Stats:
- Points per game: 12.1
- Rebounds per game: 4.4
Career Earnings:
- Total NBA Earnings: $37.6 million
- Highest Salary: $8 million (2006-2007 season with the New Orleans Hornets)
Despite injuries affecting his later years, Mason’s NBA career was marked by memorable performances and contributions to every team he played for.
Transition to Art and Philanthropy
After retiring from the NBA in 2009, Desmond Mason pursued his passion for art, becoming a successful painter and gallery owner.
Art Career Highlights:
- Mediums: Works with latex, acrylic, watercolors, oil paint, and ceramics.
- Exhibitions:
- “Blurred Lines: The Intersection of Street and Abstract Art” (2024) at the William Campbell Gallery in Fort Worth, Texas.
- Art displayed in galleries across the United States.
- Inspirations: American abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock and Latvian American painter Mark Rothko.
- Notable Buyers: Actor George Clooney and Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz have purchased his artwork.
Charity Work:
- Desmond Mason Art Show: Founded in 2004 to support organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and the NFL Player’s Association Scholarship Fund.
- Barbershop Mondays: Partnered with Gee’s Clippers in Milwaukee to offer free haircuts and a safe space for young men in the community.
Mason’s art and charity work reflect his commitment to giving back and inspiring others.
Film Appearances
Desmond Mason has also dabbled in acting, appearing in several films:
- “Like Mike” (2002): Played an NBA player in this sports comedy about a boy who gains basketball skills from magical sneakers.
- “Crazy Enough” (2012): A comedy about identical twins separated at birth.
- “The Guard” (2022): A short action film written and directed by Lance McDaniel.
Personal Life
Desmond Mason’s personal life has seen both highs and lows.
Family:
- Former Wife: Andrea Mason, a former Oklahoma State University soccer player.
- Children: Two kids, Jada and Elijah.
- Andrea’s Career: Owns barre3 studios in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, focusing on health and wellness.
Legal Issues:
- In November 2024, Mason was arrested for contempt of court after failing to appear for a hearing related to his divorce. He was released on a $50,000 bond.
Desmond Mason’s Legacy
Desmond Mason’s journey from the NBA to the art world is a testament to his versatility and determination. His net worth of $8 million reflects not only his success on the court but also his achievements as an artist and philanthropist.
Key Takeaways:
- NBA Legacy: Known for his dunking ability and solid career stats.
- Art Success: A celebrated painter with a growing reputation in the art world.
- Philanthropy: Dedicated to supporting communities through charity work.
FAQs About Desmond Mason’s Net Worth
1. What is Desmond Mason’s net worth?
Desmond Mason’s net worth is $8 million, earned through his NBA career and art ventures.
2. How much did Desmond Mason earn in the NBA?
He earned a total of $37.6 million during his 10-year NBA career.
3. What is Desmond Mason doing now?
Mason is a successful artist and gallery owner, with his work displayed in galleries across the U.S. He also continues his charity work.
4. Did Desmond Mason win any awards in the NBA?
Yes, he won the 2001 NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
Conclusion
Desmond Mason’s net worth is a reflection of his hard work, talent, and passion. From his days as an NBA star to his current success as an artist, Mason has proven that it’s possible to excel in multiple fields. His story is an inspiration to anyone looking to follow their dreams, both on and off the court.