- Name: Avery Johnson
- Current Age: 56
- Occupation(s): Former NBA player, NBA coach
- Date of Birth: March 25, 1965
- Place of Birth: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Not available
- Siblings: Not available
- Spouse: Cassandra Johnson
- Children: Christianne Johnson, Avery Johnson Jr.
- Net Worth: $12 million (2024)
- Source of Wealth: NBA career, coaching, endorsements
- Brand Endorsements: Nike, Adidas
- Ventures: Real estate investments
- Ethnicity: African American
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches
- Weight: 170 lbs
- Notable Works: NBA champion (1999), NBA Coach of the Year (2006)
Early Life and College Career
Avery DeWitt Johnson was born on March 25, 1965, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He attended St. Augustine High School, where he led the basketball team to an undefeated season and a state championship. Johnson continued his basketball career at various colleges before eventually landing at Southern University. In his senior season in 1988, Johnson led NCAA Division I in assists with 13.3 per game, setting an all-time record.
NBA Playing Career
Despite his college success, Johnson was not selected in the NBA draft. He spent time with the Palm Beach Stingrays in the USBL before signing with the Seattle SuperSonics. Johnson also played for the Denver Nuggets, San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, and Golden State Warriors during his 16-year NBA career. He was known for his leadership skills as a point guard and his ability to make plays on the court.
Coaching Career with the Dallas Mavericks
After retiring as a player in 2004, Johnson joined the Dallas Mavericks as an assistant coach under Don Nelson. Just five months later, he was promoted to head coach. Johnson quickly made a name for himself, leading the Mavericks to a successful season and earning the NBA Coach of the Month award in April 2005. The following season, he was named the NBA Coach of the Year after guiding the Mavericks to the best record in the Western Conference.
NBA Finals Appearance and Success with the Mavericks
In 2006, Johnson led the Mavericks to their first NBA Finals appearance in franchise history. Despite ultimately falling to the Miami Heat, Johnson’s coaching prowess was evident as he guided the team through a challenging playoff run. However, his time with the Mavericks came to an end in 2008 after two consecutive first-round playoff exits.
Coaching Stints with the New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets
Following his departure from the Mavericks, Johnson joined ESPN as a studio analyst before returning to coaching with the New Jersey Nets in 2010. He later coached the team when they relocated to Brooklyn. Despite some early success, Johnson was ultimately fired in 2012 after a string of losses. He then returned to ESPN as an analyst.
Coaching at the University of Alabama
In 2015, Johnson transitioned to college basketball, becoming the head coach of the University of Alabama men’s basketball team. After several seasons with the Crimson Tide, Johnson and the university mutually agreed to part ways following a first-round exit in the NIT. Throughout his coaching career, Johnson has been known for his leadership, basketball knowledge, and ability to develop players.
Personal Life and Legacy
Off the court, Johnson is a family man, married to his wife Cassandra with whom he has two children, Avery Jr. and Christianne. Avery Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps, playing for the Alabama basketball team coached by Johnson. Known for his Christian faith, Johnson has left a lasting impact on the basketball world both as a player and a coach, with his legacy continuing to inspire future generations.
Financial Insights:
As of 2024, Avery Johnson boasts a net worth of $12 million. His wealth primarily stems from his lucrative NBA career, coaching contracts, and strategic real estate investments. Johnson’s endorsement deals with major brands like Nike and Adidas have further bolstered his financial standing.
Sources of Income:
- NBA Career: Johnson’s successful tenure as a player and coach in the NBA has been a significant source of income.
- Coaching Contracts: His coaching roles with different NBA teams have provided substantial earnings.
- Endorsements: Partnerships with renowned brands have added to Johnson’s financial portfolio.
- Real Estate Investments: Johnson’s ventures in real estate have contributed to his overall net worth.
Factors Contributing to Wealth:
- Success in NBA: Johnson’s achievements as a player and coach have enhanced his market value and earning potential.
- Strategic Investments: Diversifying his portfolio with real estate ventures has ensured long-term financial stability.
- Brand Endorsements: Collaborations with top brands have not only provided financial gains but also expanded his influence in the industry.
