Charles Oakley, a retired American professional basketball player, has an estimated net worth of $12 million as of 2025. Born on December 18, 1963, Oakley is 61 years old and has left an indelible mark on the NBA with a career spanning 19 years. Known for his defensive prowess and rebounding skills, Oakley played for teams like the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, Toronto Raptors, and Washington Wizards. His journey from a young basketball enthusiast in Cleveland, Ohio, to an NBA legend is a story of grit, passion, and a fair share of controversies. In this article, we dive into Oakley’s net worth, career highlights, controversies, and life after basketball.
How Did Charles Oakley Build His Net Worth?
Charles Oakley accumulated substantial wealth through his NBA career, earning approximately $43.6 million from contracts. His most lucrative season was in 2000-2001, when he earned $8.75 million playing for the Toronto Raptors. Beyond his on-court earnings, Oakley ventured into businesses, owning salons, car washes, and detail centers in Cleveland and New York. These ventures, coupled with his coaching role for the BIG3’s Killer 3s since 2017, have contributed significantly to his $12 million net worth.
What Was Charles Oakley’s Early Life Like?
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Oakley’s passion for basketball was evident early on. He attended John Hay High School before making a name for himself at Virginia Union University. Leading the school’s basketball team to a 31-1 record in his senior year, Oakley secured the NCAA Division II Player of the Year title in 1985. His impressive collegiate stats—2,379 points and 1,642 rebounds—caught the eyes of NBA scouts, paving the way for his professional career.
How Did Charles Oakley Start His NBA Career?
In the 1985 NBA draft, Oakley was picked by the Cleveland Cavaliers but was soon traded to the Chicago Bulls. Playing alongside Michael Jordan, he quickly earned a reputation as an “enforcer,” protecting Jordan from aggressive opponents. In 1986, he scored a career-high 35 points against the Milwaukee Bucks, proving his scoring abilities in addition to his defensive prowess.
Why Is Charles Oakley Best Known for His Time with the New York Knicks?
Oakley’s most memorable NBA stint was with the New York Knicks, where he played for a decade after being traded in 1988. Known for his tough defense and exceptional rebounding, Oakley became a core member of a roster featuring Patrick Ewing, Anthony Mason, and John Starks. The 1993-94 season was a highlight, with the Knicks winning the Atlantic Division and reaching the NBA Finals, though they fell short against the Houston Rockets in seven games. Oakley set a record with 107 starts that season, including a record 25 playoff game starts.
How Did Oakley’s NBA Career Conclude?
After his time with the Knicks, Oakley played a season with the Toronto Raptors, where he earned his career-high salary of $8.75 million. A brief second stint with the Chicago Bulls followed in 2001, and a season with the Washington Wizards saw him reunite with Michael Jordan. In 2004, Oakley signed a 10-day contract with the Houston Rockets, playing only seven games before retiring. His career stats boast 12,417 points, 12,205 rebounds, and 3,217 assists—a testament to his versatility and impact on the court.
What Controversies Has Charles Oakley Faced?
Oakley’s post-retirement life has been marred by controversies, particularly with the New York Knicks. His outspoken criticism of the team’s management led to a strained relationship with owner James Dolan. In a widely publicized incident on February 8, 2017, Oakley was escorted out of Madison Square Garden during a game after an altercation with Dolan and security guards. He was arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault and criminal trespassing, further deepening the rift with the Knicks.
What Businesses Does Charles Oakley Own?
Off the court, Oakley has proven to be a savvy entrepreneur. He owns a series of businesses in Cleveland, including Hair Solutions and Nails EtCetera, as well as Oakley’s Wash House—a combination car wash and laundromat. In New York, he operates a chain of car wash, oil change, and detail centers. His business ventures reflect a strategic approach to diversifying income beyond basketball.
What Is Charles Oakley’s Role in Coaching?
In 2017, Oakley embraced coaching, leading the Killer 3s in the BIG3 basketball league. His experience as a defensive specialist has translated well into coaching, where he emphasizes toughness and discipline. Previously, he served as an assistant coach for the Charlotte Bobcats from 2010 to 2011, further broadening his basketball résumé.
How Is Charles Oakley’s Personal Life?
Oakley married Angela Reed in 2016, and in 2025, Angela joined the cast of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” bringing more public attention to the Oakley household. Despite the controversies surrounding him, Oakley’s induction into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 2016 was a proud moment that acknowledged his contributions to basketball.
What Is Charles Oakley’s Legacy?
Charles Oakley’s legacy in the NBA is that of a fierce competitor and a no-nonsense defender. His ability to combine scoring, rebounding, and defense made him a cornerstone for teams aiming for championships. Despite the controversies with the Knicks, his contributions to the game remain undeniable. Oakley’s business acumen and coaching career show a man who, even in retirement, is not slowing down.
In essence, Charles Oakley’s story is one of resilience, both on and off the court. From his defensive heroics in the NBA to his entrepreneurial ventures and coaching, Oakley’s impact on basketball and his community continues to be significant.
