Larry Sanders Net Worth

What is Larry Sanders' net worth and Salary?

Larry Sanders is an American former professional basketball player who has a net worth of $12 million. Not to be confused with "Larry Sanders," the character played by comedian Garry Shandling in "The Larry Sanders Show," Larry Sanders is best known for his time with the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. A gifted shot-blocker and defensive anchor, Sanders built a reputation as one of the league's most promising young centers before stepping away from basketball at age 26 to focus on his mental health and personal well-being. His decision to leave the NBA at the height of his earning potential was both shocking and pioneering, sparking broader conversations about mental health awareness in professional sports. Today, Sanders is recognized not just for his defensive prowess on the court but for his honesty, artistry, and advocacy off of it.

Early Life and College Career

Larry Sanders was born on November 21, 1988, in Fort Pierce, Florida. He didn't begin playing organized basketball until his teenage years, having originally been drawn to art and design. At Port St. Lucie High School, he quickly developed into a dominant player, earning all-state honors and helping his team win a district championship.

Sanders attended Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where he played three standout seasons from 2007 to 2010 under coach Anthony Grant. Known for his length and defensive instincts, he averaged 8.4 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game across his college career. Sanders was twice named the Colonial Athletic Association's Defensive Player of the Year and earned First-Team All-CAA honors in 2010 before declaring for the NBA Draft.

NBA Career

The Milwaukee Bucks selected Sanders with the 15th overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft. After two developmental seasons, he broke out during the 2012–13 campaign, averaging 9.8 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game. His shot-blocking and rim protection quickly earned him a reputation as one of the league's best young defensive centers.

In August 2013, the Bucks rewarded Sanders with a four-year, $44 million contract extension. However, his career was soon derailed by injuries, multiple suspensions for violating the NBA's anti-drug policy, and struggles with anxiety and depression. By early 2015, Sanders decided to walk away from the NBA entirely, explaining that he no longer found fulfillment in the game and needed to focus on his mental health and personal life. His candid public statements about depression and emotional well-being made him one of the first active NBA players to openly discuss such issues.

Contracts, Salaries & Career Earnings

During his NBA career, Larry Sanders earned approximately $27 million in salary. His most lucrative deal came in 2013 with the four-year, $44 million contract he signed with the Milwaukee Bucks following his breakout season. When he left the NBA in 2015, the Bucks and Sanders negotiated a buyout agreement worth about $15 million, which was paid to him over seven years through 2022 under the league's stretch provision. While he forfeited roughly $21 million in remaining salary, those deferred payments provided long-term financial stability.

In total, Sanders' career earnings, including his buyout, amounted to around $31 million before taxes and fees. Despite stepping away from the game early, he remained financially secure and later described the decision as one of peace rather than loss.

Getty Images

Life After Basketball

Following his retirement, Sanders turned his focus toward creative and personal pursuits. He embraced his lifelong passion for art, design, and music, recording and producing under the stage name L8 Show. His music and visual art often reflect introspective themes of identity, growth, and healing. He has also become an advocate for mental health awareness, sharing his experiences publicly and encouraging other athletes to prioritize emotional well-being over societal expectations.

In 2017, Sanders briefly returned to the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers, appearing in a handful of games before being waived later that season. While he considered other comeback attempts, he ultimately chose to remain outside the league and continue focusing on his creative work and family life.

Legacy

Larry Sanders' story stands as one of the most unique in modern sports. Though his career was short, his decision to walk away from millions of dollars at his peak inspired new dialogue around mental health in professional athletics. He remains respected by fans and peers alike as both an elite defensive talent and a deeply introspective individual who chose authenticity and self-care over fame and fortune.

Who's Richer?

Larry
Sanders

Compare!

Marcus
Camby