Shawn Kemp Net Worth: Life, Career, Stats, and Family of the NBA’s “Reign Man”

Shawn Kemp is one of the most electrifying names in basketball history. Known for his incredible athleticism, thunderous dunks, and charismatic personality, Kemp was a dominant force in the NBA throughout the 1990s. Fans across the globe remember him not only for his basketball brilliance but also for his vibrant off-court presence and personal life stories.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore Shawn Kemp’s net worth, who he is, his career highlights, his height and playing style, details about his son Shawn Kemp Jr, memorabilia like the Shawn Kemp jersey, his career stats, his children and family life, his age, and birthday. Along the way, we’ll paint a full portrait of a player who left an indelible mark on the game.

Who Is Shawn Kemp?

Shawn Travis Kemp Sr., often called “Reign Man,” was born on November 26, 1969, in Elkhart, Indiana, USA. Growing up, Kemp showed early signs of basketball brilliance, dominating high school competitions with his unique blend of size, speed, and leaping ability.

He bypassed college basketball after a brief stint at the University of Kentucky and entered the 1989 NBA Draft, where he was selected 17th overall by the Seattle SuperSonics. At the time, Kemp was the youngest player in the league, and many considered him a raw but promising talent.

Over the next decade, Kemp became a household name. His highlight-reel dunks, rebounding prowess, and ability to perform under pressure made him one of the league’s most popular players. Paired with point guard Gary Payton, the duo formed one of the most feared tandems in the NBA during the 1990s.

Shawn Kemp’s Height and Playing Style

Standing at 6 feet 10 inches (208 cm) and weighing around 230 pounds during his playing prime, Shawn Kemp had the physical tools to dominate as a power forward.

His height allowed him to excel as a rebounder, shot-blocker, and inside scorer, while his quickness and agility gave him an edge over slower big men. Kemp’s style was aggressive yet fluid — he could run the floor like a guard, finish with explosive dunks, and even hit mid-range jumpers.

He wasn’t just about athleticism; Kemp had an underrated basketball IQ, often finding himself in the right position to make game-changing plays.

Shawn Kemp Stats and Career Achievements

Over his 14-season NBA career, Kemp played for:

• Seattle SuperSonics (1989–1997)

• Cleveland Cavaliers (1997–2000)

• Portland Trail Blazers (2000–2002)

• Orlando Magic (2002–2003)

Career stats:

• Points per game (PPG): 14.6

• Rebounds per game (RPG): 8.4

• Assists per game (APG): 1.6

• Field Goal Percentage: 48.8%

Major achievements:

• 6× NBA All-Star (1993–1998)

• 3× All-NBA Second Team (1994–1996)

• Led Seattle to the 1996 NBA Finals against the Chicago Bulls

• Named to the USA Basketball Men’s National Team (Gold Medal at the 1994 FIBA World Championship)

Shawn Kemp Net Worth

As of 2025, Shawn Kemp’s net worth is estimated at around $5 million. This is a far cry from the estimated $90 million he earned during his playing career through salaries and endorsements, particularly with brands like Reebok.

Several factors contributed to the decline in his net worth:

• Legal troubles and personal issues in the 2000s

• Business ventures that failed to generate lasting income

• A lavish lifestyle during and after his NBA career

However, in recent years, Kemp has made a comeback as a businessman. He invested in Washington State’s legalized cannabis industry, opening Shawn Kemp’s Cannabis, a dispensary in Seattle. This business venture has brought him back into the public spotlight and provided a stable income stream.

Shawn Kemp Jr.

One of Kemp’s most well-known children, Shawn Kemp Jr., followed in his father’s footsteps by pursuing basketball. Born on June 27, 1991, Kemp Jr. played college basketball for the University of Washington Huskies.

Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, he played the forward position and was known for his defensive presence and rebounding skills. His career, however, faced challenges due to a diagnosis of Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid. Despite this, Kemp Jr. showed determination, carving out a respectable college career before moving on from basketball.

Shawn Kemp Jersey and Memorabilia

Shawn Kemp jerseys remain popular among NBA fans and collectors. The most iconic is the Seattle SuperSonics green and yellow jersey with his number 40.

Fans can purchase:

• Authentic Mitchell & Ness throwback jerseys

• NBA Store Swingman editions

• Vintage Kemp jerseys on eBay and memorabilia shops

Owning a Shawn Kemp jersey is more than just wearing sports apparel — it’s a symbol of 1990s basketball culture, when the Sonics were one of the league’s most exciting teams.

Shawn Kemp Children and Family

Kemp is known to have seven children with six different women. While his personal life has drawn media attention, Kemp has maintained relationships with many of his children and has been seen supporting them in various endeavors.

His family dynamic reflects the complexities of life after the NBA, where balancing fame, fortune, and personal responsibilities can be challenging.

Shawn Kemp Age and Birthday

Shawn Kemp was born on November 26, 1969, which makes him 55 years old as of August 2025. Despite the physical demands of his career, Kemp remains active and involved in business ventures and public appearances.

His birthday celebrations have occasionally been public events, with fans and former teammates paying tribute to his legendary career.

Legal Troubles and Recent News

In recent years, Kemp has faced legal challenges. In May 2025, he pleaded guilty to second-degree assault related to a 2023 shooting incident in Tacoma, Washington. While prosecutors recommended a short jail term and community custody, Kemp has expressed a desire to move forward and focus on positive ventures.

These legal issues are a reminder that even sports legends face personal battles after their playing days end.

Legacy in Basketball

Shawn Kemp’s impact on basketball extends beyond his statistics. He was a cultural icon of the 1990s, embodying the flash, power, and excitement that defined the NBA’s global expansion era.

Players like Blake Griffin, Zion Williamson, and Amare Stoudemire have drawn comparisons to Kemp’s style of play. His highlights remain among the most replayed in NBA history, inspiring younger generations of basketball fans.

Conclusion

Shawn Kemp’s life story is a mix of jaw-dropping athletic achievement, personal challenges, and a reinvention that keeps him relevant decades after his retirement. From dominating the paint in the NBA to becoming a businessman in Seattle’s cannabis industry, Kemp continues to evolve.

Whether you’re a fan of the Seattle SuperSonics, a collector of basketball memorabilia, or simply fascinated by sports history, Shawn Kemp’s journey is worth knowing — both for his triumphs and the lessons his life provides.

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