O J Mayo net worth in 2024 reflects a rollercoaster career filled with high points and financial challenges. Once a rising star in the NBA, Mayo’s journey has seen him earn significant sums while playing for teams like the Memphis Grizzlies and Dallas Mavericks.
His financial story, however, goes beyond NBA earnings, including international leagues and personal controversies. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at O J Mayo’s basketball career, focusing on his high school and college achievements, professional salary, and the events that shaped his financial standing.
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Contents
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Ovinton J’Anthony Mayo |
| Popular Name | O J Mayo |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | November 5, 1987 |
| Age | 36 |
| Parents | Alisha Mayo, Kenneth Maurice Ziegler |
| Siblings | Todd Mayo |
| Birthplace | Huntington, West Virginia |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | Huntington High School, Rose Hill Christian School, North College Hill High School, University of Southern California |
| Marital Status | N/A |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Basketball |
| Height | 6 ft 4 |
What is the Net Worth of O J Mayo in 2024?
As of 2024, O J Mayo‘s net worth is estimated at $5 million. Compared to other former NBA players, his financial trajectory has been affected by off-court issues and a suspension, preventing further growth.
Although he earned around $45 million during his career, his current financial standing is modest. Many of his peers in the basketball world have seen significantly larger fortunes.
Here’s a list of notable people and organizations related to O J Mayo’s career and earnings:
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Dallas Mavericks
- Milwaukee Bucks
- NBA
- USC Trojans
- Zamalek SC
- Puerto Rico Basketball League
- Taiwan Basketball League
For a closer look at the fortunes of players, explore the highest-paid players in basketball.
Salary and Finance Overview
Early Life and Educational Background
O J Mayo was born in Huntington, West Virginia, and his early years set the foundation for his future basketball career. Raised by his mother, Alisha Mayo, he began playing basketball in high school, first at Rose Hill Christian and later at North College Hill High School in Ohio.
His high school performance earned him the title of Mr. Basketball of Ohio and paved the way for college recruitment.
His educational journey led him to the University of Southern California (USC), where he played for the USC Trojans. While at USC, Mayo’s financial story began, as improper benefits would later cause the university to vacate their wins.
High School and College Basketball Career
O J Mayo’s achievements in high school are notable for setting him apart as one of the top prospects in the country. In high school, he averaged almost 29 points per game, bringing attention to his talents. His college career, though short-lived, was impressive.
He was named to the All-Pac-10 First Team, which made him a top candidate for the NBA Draft.
This phase of his life is important because his early success opened the door to substantial financial earnings in the future. USC provided the stage for him to display his skills, leading to his selection in the 2008 NBA Draft.
NBA Draft and Entry into Professional Basketball
Mayo entered the NBA as the 3rd overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, a moment that marked the beginning of his professional career. Drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves and traded to the Memphis Grizzlies, Mayo quickly proved his worth by earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2009.
His NBA contract and rookie salary significantly boosted his financial profile, setting him on a path to millions.
His time with the Memphis Grizzlies saw him sign a rookie deal that contributed heavily to his earnings. After several productive seasons, he moved to the Dallas Mavericks and Milwaukee Bucks, where his contracts continued to add to his financial growth.
Despite his skills on the court, Mayo’s career would soon face turbulence.
International Basketball and Financial Impact
After being banned from the NBA in 2016 due to a drug violation, Mayo’s financial journey took a turn. He played for international teams in Puerto Rico and Taiwan, where his contracts, while still contributing to his income, were much smaller than what he had earned in the NBA.
His stints with the Taipei Fubon Braves and later with Zamalek SC in Egypt kept his professional career alive, but his earning potential was no longer at its peak.
His time abroad, though valuable for keeping his career active, did not match the significant earnings he had in the NBA. This shift in income sources demonstrates how off-court issues can impact the financial standing of professional athletes.
Financial Controversies and Challenges
One of the biggest turning points in O J Mayo‘s financial life came in 2016 when he was banned from the NBA for violating the league’s drug policy. This suspension lasted two years and severely impacted his earning capacity.
The loss of NBA-level contracts resulted in a sharp decline in his income.
In 2019, Mayo also faced financial difficulty when he lost a property in Milwaukee to foreclosure. This incident underscores how quickly fortunes can change, even for top athletes.
Awards, Achievements, and Recognition
Throughout his career, Mayo earned multiple accolades that helped him build a marketable reputation. From being named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team to playing a role on the U.S. Men’s Select Team, these honors contributed to his brand and visibility.
While these awards reflect his skill and success on the court, they also indirectly contributed to his income, especially during the peak of his career.
FAQs about O J Mayo
What was O J Mayo’s career like before the NBA?
He had an outstanding high school career, being named Mr. Basketball of Ohio and playing for Huntington High School before moving on to USC.
Why was O J Mayo banned from the NBA?
In 2016, he was banned for violating the NBA’s drug policy, which led to a two-year suspension.
Which teams did O J Mayo play for in the NBA?
He played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, and Milwaukee Bucks during his NBA career.
What international teams has he played for?
Mayo played for teams in Puerto Rico, Taiwan, and Egypt, including Zamalek SC and the Taipei Fubon Braves.
How much money did O J Mayo earn during his NBA career?
He earned an estimated $45 million during his NBA career, primarily from his contracts with the Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, and Milwaukee Bucks.
Conclusion
O J Mayo’s financial journey highlights the highs and lows of a professional athlete’s career. For more insights on athletes and finances, explore more content on aupeo.com and share your thoughts in the comments!
