The name Paul Westhead is synonymous with a revolutionary style of basketball that changed the game forever. His legacy is that of a true innovator, a coach who left an indelible mark on the sport with his unique, fast-paced system. But what is the financial story behind this basketball legend? Let’s explore the life, career, and Paul Westhead net worth of Paul Westhead, a man who shaped basketball history.
Table of Contents
Who is Paul Westhead?
Paul William Westhead is a legendary basketball coach, best known for his success in the NBA and WNBA. His passion for basketball began at Saint Joseph’s University, where he laid the foundation for a coaching career that would span over four decades and multiple continents. Westhead is a true basketball pioneer, known for his unorthodox, dynamic coaching style.
Early Life and Background
Born on February 21, 1939, Paul Westhead’s early years were marked by a growing passion for basketball. He attended Saint Joseph’s University, where his love for the sport took root. This period in his life set the tone for a career that would be defined by a dedication to coaching and a unique approach to the game.
Career and Achievements
The Coaching Journey
Paul Westhead’s coaching career is nothing short of impressive, spanning 44 years and including 20 different coaching positions. His first major success came as a rookie NBA head coach with the Los Angeles Lakers, leading them to the 1980 NBA championship. This was just the beginning of a diverse and illustrious career.
Westhead went on to coach several other NBA teams, including the Denver Nuggets and the Chicago Bulls. He also made his mark in the NCAA, WNBA, ABA, and even the Japan Basketball League. His impact on the sport was felt across the globe.
The System
What sets Paul Westhead apart is his unique coaching philosophy, dubbed ‘The System’. This run-and-gun style of play was unorthodox and highly effective, resulting in several NCAA records and high-scoring games. His teams became known for their fast-paced, dynamic play, a style that kept opponents on their toes.
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) was a particular highlight of Westhead’s career. During his tenure, he transformed LMU into a scoring powerhouse, regularly contending in the NCAA tournaments. Westhead’s innovative strategies left an enduring impact on the sport, with his teams setting multiple scoring records.
Championship Glory
Paul Westhead is the only coach to have won championships in both the NBA and WNBA, a remarkable achievement. His 1980 NBA championship with the Lakers is a standout memory, but it was not his only glory. In 2007, he led the Phoenix Mercury to a WNBA championship, further cementing his legacy.
Sources of Income
Coaching Contracts
The primary source of Paul Westhead’s wealth has been his various coaching contracts. These contracts have earned him significant sums over the years, with one example being his contract with the University of Oregon. This five-year deal was worth over $3 million, with his final season bringing in $675,000.
Multiple Leagues, Multiple Earnings
Westhead’s income has also been boosted by his involvement in multiple leagues. His stints in the NBA, WNBA, and other leagues have contributed substantially to his earnings. With each success and each new contract, Westhead’s financial legacy grew stronger.
Paul Westhead Net Worth
Current Estimates
As of recent reports, Paul Westhead net worth is estimated to be around $1.3 million. This figure is a reflection of his long and illustrious career in coaching. While it may seem modest compared to some of his peers, it is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his unique path.
Fluctuations and Peaks
Like most careers, Paul Westhead net worth has likely seen its ups and downs. His earnings would have peaked during his high-profile coaching roles with teams like the Lakers and the Nuggets, as well as his time at the University of Oregon. These prominent positions would have commanded substantial salaries.
Personal Life
Details about Paul Westhead’s personal life are relatively scarce, indicating a man who prefers to keep his private life private. However, we do know that he has a well-rounded life beyond basketball. He has a passion for teaching, focusing on literature and writing, which suggests a love for knowledge and a desire to educate.
Important Dates
- February 21, 1939: Paul Westhead is born, and a future basketball legend enters the world.
- 1980: Westhead leads the Los Angeles Lakers to an NBA championship in his rookie year as a head coach, an incredible feat.
- 2007: He adds another feather to his cap, coaching the Phoenix Mercury to a WNBA championship.
- 2014: After a long and successful career, Westhead retires from coaching, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
Conclusion
Paul Westhead’s career is a fascinating journey through the world of basketball. His innovative approach to the game and his success with ‘The System’ have left an indelible mark. While his net worth may not be in the stratosphere, it is a reflection of his dedication to the sport he loves and the unique path he blazed.
FAQs
Q: How did Paul Westhead make his money?
Paul Westhead’s wealth primarily comes from his coaching contracts in various basketball leagues, including the NBA, WNBA, NCAA, and more. His success in multiple leagues and with different teams has contributed to his financial success.
Q: What is Paul Westhead net worth?
As of recent estimates, Paul Westhead net worth is approximately $1.3 million. This figure has likely fluctuated over the years, with peaks during his high-profile coaching stints.
Q: What are Paul Westhead’s biggest achievements?
Paul Westhead’s biggest achievements include winning championships in both the NBA and WNBA, a unique feat. He led the Los Angeles Lakers to the 1980 NBA title and the Phoenix Mercury to the 2007 WNBA championship. His teams at Loyola Marymount University also set multiple scoring records.
Q: How did Paul Westhead’s ‘The System’ work?
The System’ was Westhead’s unique, run-and-gun style of play that emphasized a fast pace and high-scoring games. This unorthodox approach led to several NCAA records and transformed teams into scoring powerhouses. It was a key factor in many of his teams’ successes.
Q: What was Paul Westhead’s coaching record?
Over his 44-year career, Paul Westhead held 20 different coaching positions across various leagues. His record includes coaching the Los Angeles Lakers to an NBA championship in 1980, as well as successful stints with the Denver Nuggets, Chicago Bulls, and several college and international teams. His unique style left a lasting impact on the sport.
