Luc Longley net worth: The first Australian to play in the NBA


Luc Longley net worth arises from his basketball career. He is an Australian basketball executive, and former professional basketball player and coach.

In the National Basketball Association (NBA), he played for Minnesota Timberwolves, Chicago Bulls, Phoenix Suns, and New York Knicks.

Luc Longley net worth

The estimated Luc Longley net worth is $20 million according to Celebrity Net Worth. His executive career, former professional basketball career as a player and coach and other ventures, contribute to his income.

Career overview

Luc Longley was selected 7th overall in the 1991 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Most significantly, this milestone made him the first Australian to play in the NBA.

Early in his career, he also represented Australia at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. 

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After more than two seasons with Minnesota Timberwolves, he was traded to the Chicago Bulls during the 1993/94 season.

With the Chicago Bulls, he developed into the team’s starting center. He played a pivotal role in one of the most dominant eras in basketball history, helping the Bulls secure three consecutive NBA championships from 1996 to 1998. 

This achievement made him the first Australian to win an NBA title and still the only one with three championships. 

Despite injuries, including ankle surgery and a shoulder dislocation that sidelined him for part of the 1996/97 season, he remained an integral contributor. 

After his time with the Chicago Bulls, Luc Longley was traded to the Phoenix Suns and later moved in a complex four-team deal to the New York Knicks ahead of the 2000/2001 season. 

He played one season with the New York Knicks before retiring due to a degenerative ankle condition.

Internationally, he had a distinguished career with the Australian national team, debuting in 1988 and serving as a key player for over a decade. 

He also competed in three Olympic Games (1988, 1992, 2000) and the 1990 FIBA World Championship. 

He shared the court with prominent Australian players such as Andrew Gaze and Phil Smyth, contributing to a strong era for the Boomers.

Career after playing basketball

After retirement, Luc Longley remained active in the sport. He served as an assistant coach for the Australian national team from 2013 to 2019.

Furthermore, he also pursued executive roles, including part-ownership of the Perth Wildcats and advisory and ownership positions with the Sydney Kings organization.

Recognitions

  • Australian International Player of the Year Award Gaze Medal (1989)
  • Australian Institute of Sport “Best of the Best” inductee (2001)
  • Basketball Australia Hall of Fame  inductee (2006)
  • Sport Australia Hall of Fame inductee (2009)
  • Member of the Order of Australia (2019)
  • Basketball Western Australia Hall of Fame inductee (2021)

Conclusion on Luc Longley net worth

Luc Longley’s strong financial foundation is reflected in his career as a three-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls. Beyond his NBA success, he contributed significantly to Australia’s national basketball, earning multiple Hall of Fame honors. He continues to shape the sport through executive roles.

Featured image: Luc Longley on Instagram
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