By Ibrahim B. Muhammed
Kevin Durant, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of his generation, is also making waves far beyond the court. With a championship mindset and a sharp eye for opportunities, Durant has successfully transitioned into the world of investing, building a financial empire worth noting.
As of 2024, Durant’s estimated net worth is $350 million, thanks to his stellar basketball career, lucrative endorsements, and most notably, his strategic investments. Through his investment vehicle, Thirty Five Ventures, Durant is proving that his business acumen is as impressive as his jump shot.
On-Court Success as the Foundation
Durant’s basketball career is legendary. The two-time NBA champion and league MVP has amassed over $350 million in career earnings from contracts, including his current four-year, $194 million deal with the Phoenix Suns. But Durant always knew that basketball wouldn’t last forever. He wisely began preparing for his post-athletic career early, making calculated decisions to maximise his earning potential.
Off the court, Durant’s earning power has been bolstered by high-profile endorsement deals with Nike, Gatorade, Degree, and Beats by Dre. His lifetime contract with Nike alone is estimated to be worth over $300 million, and his signature KD line of sneakers continues to be one of the most popular in the market.
Thirty Five Ventures: A Game-Changer
Durant’s real success off the court comes through his company, Thirty Five Ventures, co-founded with his business partner, Rich Kleiman. This firm has become a powerhouse in venture capital, managing investments in over 100 companies, ranging from tech startups to entertainment platforms.
Some of Durant’s most notable investments include:
• Postmates: Durant invested early in the food delivery service, which was later acquired by Uber for $2.65 billion in 2020.
• Acorns: A micro-investing app that empowers users to build wealth, aligning perfectly with Durant’s vision of democratizing financial literacy.
• Coinbase: Durant capitalized on the cryptocurrency boom by backing Coinbase early, a decision that paid off handsomely when the company went public.
• Whoop: A fitness tech startup focused on wearable health devices, reflecting Durant’s commitment to wellness.
Thirty Five Ventures also has a media arm, producing documentaries and shows that resonate with Durant’s personal brand. Their recent Netflix documentary, “Q Ball,” highlighted the lives of incarcerated athletes, showcasing Durant’s interest in socially impactful storytelling.
Real Estate and Ownership Ventures
Durant has also invested heavily in real estate, with properties across New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
Additionally, he has ventured into sports team ownership. Durant is a minority stakeholder in the Philadelphia Union, a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, and has expressed interest in expanding his portfolio into other leagues.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Durant’s financial success hasn’t distracted him from giving back. Through his Kevin Durant Charity Foundation (KDCF), he has built basketball courts in underserved communities, provided scholarships, and supported youth initiatives. His philanthropy underscores his belief in empowering the next generation, both on and off the court.
Lessons from Durant’s Journey
Kevin Durant’s story is one of ambition, foresight, and execution. His ability to leverage his fame and resources to create generational wealth sets an example for athletes worldwide. By diversifying his portfolio and taking calculated risks, Durant has proven that athletes can thrive in the business world just as they do in sports.
As Durant continues to grow his influence across industries, his journey from NBA superstar to boardroom mogul serves as a blueprint for how athletes can evolve beyond the game. For Kevin Durant, the scoreboard doesn’t end at the buzzer—it extends to the boardroom.