Pearl Washington, born on March 5, 1964, in Brooklyn, New York, began his basketball career at an early age, honing his skills on the concrete courts of his neighborhood. He quickly gained local recognition for his exceptional talent and flashy style of play, earning the nickname “The Pearl” for his ability to dribble like a string of pearls.

Washington’s big break came when he was offered a scholarship to Syracuse University in 1983. He became an instant sensation, leading the Orangemen to the NCAA championship game in his freshman year. His signature move, the “Pearl to the Hole,” a no-look pass through his legs, became a crowd favorite and a symbol of his innovative play.

Pearl Washington’s Current Net Worth

As of 2025, Pearl Washington’s current net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. This figure takes into account his earnings from his basketball career, as well as his business ventures.

Career

Pearl Washington, born on July 13, 1964, is a former American basketball player. He played college basketball for the Syracuse Orangemen, where he was a two-time All-American. Washington was then drafted by the New Jersey Nets in the 1986 NBA draft. He played for the Nets, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Detroit Pistons during his NBA career.

Other Ventures

After retiring from basketball, Washington ventured into coaching. He was an assistant coach at several universities, including his alma mater, Syracuse. He also worked as a scout for the NBA’s New York Knicks. Additionally, Washington has been involved in various community initiatives and has served as a mentor to young athletes.

Assets

Pearl Washington’s assets include real estate investments. He owns properties in his hometown of Brooklyn, New York, and in upstate New York. He also has a collection of classic cars, including a 1965 Ford Mustang and a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle. Washington’s most valuable asset, however, is his Syracuse University memorabilia, which includes his All-American jersey and his number 21 jersey that was retired by the university.

Annual Income

Pearl Washington’s annual income comes from various sources. He earns from his coaching and scouting roles in basketball, as well as from his real estate investments. His annual income is estimated to be around $300,000. Additionally, Washington earns from speaking engagements and appearances at basketball camps and events.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Pearl Washington

Frequently Asked Questions about Pearl Washington’s Net Worth

1. What is Pearl Washington’s net worth?

Pearl Washington’s net worth is estimated to be around $500,000.

2. How did Pearl Washington make his money?

Pearl Washington made his money primarily through his professional basketball career. He played in the NBA for several teams, including the New York Knicks and the Detroit Pistons.

3. What was Pearl Washington’s highest salary in the NBA?

Pearl Washington’s highest salary in the NBA was $1.2 million, which he earned during the 1986-87 season with the New York Knicks.

4. Did Pearl Washington have any endorsement deals?

Yes, Pearl Washington had endorsement deals with companies like Converse and Coca-Cola during his playing career.

5. What happened to Pearl Washington after his basketball career?

After his basketball career, Pearl Washington worked as a coach and a scout for several NBA teams. He also worked as a motivational speaker and a community activist.

6. How did Pearl Washington die?

Pearl Washington died on April 20, 2016, at the age of 52, after a long battle with brain cancer.

7. Was Pearl Washington inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame?

No, Pearl Washington was not inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame.

8. What college did Pearl Washington attend?

Pearl Washington attended the University of Syracuse, where he played college basketball for the Syracuse Orange.

9. What was Pearl Washington’s best season in the NBA?

Pearl Washington’s best season in the NBA was the 1985-86 season with the New York Knicks, where he averaged 17.6 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game.

10. How many points did Pearl Washington score in his NBA career?

Pearl Washington scored a total of 5,632 points in his NBA career, which spanned 10 seasons.