Retired NBA Star Laments Wasting Millions on Partying Instead of Giving Back

In November 2025, retired NBA star J.R. Smith opened up about his regrets over how he spent his wealth during his 16-year professional basketball career. Smith, who earned roughly $90 million, confessed that he squandered much of that money on frequent nights out at clubs, alcohol, and entertainment, as well as covering fines for being late to team events.

"I could have fed my whole community 10 times over with the money I was just [paying in fines for being] late on the bus," Smith said in a recent podcast interview. The two-time NBA champion acknowledged that he was "living life to the fullest" during his playing days, but now realizes he could have made a much bigger impact by using his platform and resources to uplift his hometown.

After retiring from the NBA, Smith has pursued a degree at North Carolina A&T State University, the largest historically Black college in the country. He was even named the school's Academic Athlete of the Year while playing golf. Smith's journey demonstrates his desire to make a positive difference, a stark contrast to his previous lavish spending habits. The former NBA Sixth Man of the Year hopes his story will serve as a cautionary tale, inspiring future generations of athletes to be more mindful of how they use their wealth and influence.