The story of NBA money often focuses on lottery picks and max contracts, but the real masterclass in financial strategy lies with those who start on the margins. The perjalanan finansial E’Twaun Moore—his financial journey—is a powerful case study in turning a late second-round draft spot into a lifetime of security. Drafted 55th overall, an afterthought in a class of stars, Moore methodically built a career that netted him over $44 million in gross earnings, proving that financial success in professional sports is less about the starting line and more about the marathon.
This deep dive breaks down the key phases of his career, from scraping by on minimum contracts to landing a life-changing deal and intelligently transitioning into his post-playing life.
At a Glance: Key Financial Takeaways
- From Draft Risk to Riches: Learn how Moore navigated the financial uncertainty of a second-round pick to secure an eight-figure fortune.
- The Power of the Second Contract: Understand why his $34 million deal with the Pelicans was the pivotal moment in his financial journey and how he earned it.
- Gross vs. Net Reality: See a practical breakdown of why $44 million in career earnings results in an estimated $5 million net worth, accounting for taxes, fees, and expenses.
- The Smart Second Act: Discover how his transition to a scout for the Chicago Bulls provides a blueprint for post-career financial stability.
From #55 Pick to First Paycheck: The Early Years
For most NBA players, draft night is a coronation. For E’Twaun Moore, selected 55th in 2011, it was just the beginning of a fight for survival. Second-round picks are not guaranteed contracts or money, placing immediate pressure on them to prove their value.
The Lockout and the Italian Detour
Moore’s professional career didn’t even start in the NBA. An NBA lockout in 2011 shuttered the league, leaving rookies like him in limbo. Instead of waiting, he made a savvy financial move: signing with Benetton Treviso in Italy. This decision provided an immediate income stream when none was guaranteed in the U.S. and allowed him to hone his skills against professional competition.
This early choice highlights a core principle of financial stability: always have a backup plan and be willing to diversify your income sources, especially when your primary path is uncertain.
Living on the NBA Minimum
Once the lockout ended, Moore signed his first NBA contract with the Boston Celtics: a 2-year deal worth just over $1.2 million. He followed this with similar-level contracts with the Orlando Magic and Chicago Bulls. Over his first five seasons, his total earnings were modest by NBA standards—around $5.2 million combined.
During this period, financial discipline was paramount. While some peers on larger contracts might indulge in lavish lifestyles, players on minimum deals must manage their money meticulously. This phase required strict budgeting, careful investment, and a focus on performance to set the stage for a more significant payday. This early grind is a crucial, often-overlooked part of E’Twaun Moore’s financial journey.
The $34 Million Leap: Anatomy of a Career-Defining Deal
After five years of proving himself as a reliable role player, E’Twaun Moore’s hard work paid off spectacularly. His consistent performance, particularly with the Chicago Bulls, positioned him perfectly for free agency in 2016 when the NBA’s salary cap exploded.
The New Orleans Pelicans signed him to a 4-year, $34 million contract. This single deal was worth nearly seven times his total earnings from his first five years combined. It fundamentally altered his financial reality, moving him from a player earning a living to an individual building generational wealth.
This leap underscores the most critical financial juncture for many professional athletes: the second contract. It’s the reward for surviving the initial “prove-it” years. Managing this sudden influx of wealth requires a completely different mindset. The strategies that helped him budget on a minimum salary were no longer sufficient for managing a multi-million-dollar annual income. This is where comprehensive planning becomes essential. For a broader look at building such a long-term strategy, a resource like ETwaun Moores financial playbook provides an invaluable framework.
This contract wasn’t just a windfall; it was the financial anchor for the rest of his life. With an average annual salary of $8.5 million, he had the capital to make significant investments, plan for his family’s future, and create a financial cushion that would outlast his playing days.
The Veteran Phase: Maximizing Earnings as Roles Change
Following his lucrative four-year stint in New Orleans, Moore entered the final phase of his playing career. As players age, their on-court roles often diminish, and their contracts reflect that shift. Moore transitioned from a highly-paid starter to a valued veteran on shorter, less expensive deals.
He signed one-year contracts with the Phoenix Suns ($2.3M) and a final one with the Orlando Magic ($2.6M). While these figures are a significant step down from his $8.6 million peak salary, they represent savvy financial management. Instead of retiring, he continued to leverage his reputation and skill to earn millions, adding to his nest egg.
This period demonstrates the importance of maximizing your earning window. Every additional year of high income, even if it’s not at your peak level, provides more capital to invest and grow. His final contract ended when he was waived by the Magic, a common reality in the league that reinforces the need for having a solid financial foundation independent of guaranteed playing time.
Why $44 Million in Earnings Doesn’t Equal a $44 Million Net Worth
One of the biggest misconceptions in sports finances is equating gross earnings with personal wealth. E’Twaun Moore earned an estimated $44.2 million in his career, yet his net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. This isn’t a sign of poor management; it’s a reflection of financial reality.
Let’s break down where the money goes.
The “Invisible” Deductions from an NBA Salary
For every dollar an NBA player earns, a significant portion never reaches their bank account. Here’s a simplified look at the major deductions:
| Deduction Category | Estimated Percentage | Impact on an $8.6M Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Taxes | ~37% | ~$3,182,000 |
| State/Jock Taxes | ~5-13% | ~$430,000 - $1,118,000 |
| Agent Fees | ~3-4% | ~$258,000 - $344,000 |
| NBPA Dues / Escrow | Variable (often ~10%) | ~$860,000 (escrow, often returned later) |
| Financial/Lifestyle Mgmt | ~1-2% | ~$86,000 - $172,000 |
| Total Estimated Deductions | ~50-60% | ~$4,816,000 - $5,676,000 |
Note: These are estimates. Jock taxes are levied by states and cities for each game played there, complicating the tax picture immensely. Escrow is a portion of salary held by the league to ensure a 50/50 revenue split with owners and is often partially returned.
After these deductions, a player’s take-home pay is often less than half of their reported salary. Out of the remaining income, they must cover living expenses, family support, and investments. When viewed through this lens, Moore’s ability to build a $5 million net worth is a testament to his smart financial stewardship. He successfully avoided the pitfalls of overspending and poor investments that have troubled many athletes with far higher career earnings.
From Player to Scout: Securing Post-Career Income
The average NBA career lasts about 4.5 years. E’Twaun Moore played for 11 seasons, but he planned for the inevitable end. In 2024, he was hired by the Chicago Bulls—one of his former teams—as a scout.
This move is a brilliant example of a successful “second act.” It achieves several key financial goals:
- Creates a New Income Stream: A scout’s salary provides steady, reliable income, preventing the need to draw down retirement funds prematurely.
- Leverages Existing Expertise: He stays within the NBA ecosystem, using the knowledge and relationships he built over a decade.
- Maintains Purpose and Structure: The transition from the highly structured life of a pro athlete to retirement can be jarring. A new role provides a routine and a continued sense of purpose.
This proactive career pivot is perhaps the most crucial lesson from E’Twaun Moore’s financial journey. He didn’t just retire; he repurposed his career for a new phase of life, ensuring his financial security would continue long after he stopped playing.
Answering Your Questions About E’Twaun Moore’s Finances
How much did E’Twaun Moore make in his NBA career?
E’Twaun Moore earned an estimated $44,184,334 in gross salary over his 11-season NBA career. When adjusted for inflation to 2024, this amount is valued at approximately $51.3 million.
What was E’Twaun Moore’s biggest contract?
His largest and most significant contract was a 4-year, $34,000,000 deal signed with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2016. This contract featured his peak single-season salary of $8,664,928.
Is a $5 million net worth good for an NBA player with his earnings?
Yes, it is considered a very successful outcome. Given that athletes typically lose 50-60% of their gross earnings to taxes and fees, turning $44 million in salary into a lasting $5 million net worth indicates disciplined saving, smart investing, and avoidance of major financial mistakes. It reflects a sustainable financial plan.
What is E’Twaun Moore doing now?
As of 2024, E’Twaun Moore is employed as a scout for the Chicago Bulls. This post-playing career choice keeps him involved in the NBA and provides a stable, ongoing source of income.
Key Financial Lessons from E’Twaun Moore’s Career Arc
E’Twaun Moore’s path offers a practical, replicable blueprint for financial success, whether you’re an athlete or not. His journey wasn’t built on a record-breaking rookie deal but on resilience, strategic planning, and a clear understanding of financial realities.
- Your Start Doesn’t Define Your Finish: Moore began as the 55th pick with no guaranteed money. Through consistent performance and professionalism, he carved out a long, lucrative career. Let your work ethic, not your initial position, dictate your financial ceiling.
- Bet on Yourself, Then Cash In: He spent five years on modest contracts, building his value across the league. When the opportunity arose with the 2016 salary cap spike, he was perfectly positioned to secure a life-changing contract.
- Understand the Difference Between Income and Wealth: He earned over $44 million, but his wealth is what he kept, managed, and grew. Focus on your net take-home pay and build a financial plan based on that number, not the headline salary figure.
- Always Plan Your Next Move: The most impressive part of his journey may be his seamless transition to a post-playing career. By becoming a scout, he ensured his financial journey continues, powered by a new source of income and purpose. Don’t wait until your primary career ends to figure out what’s next.