Kent Bazemore Net Worth: Age, Career And Achievements

Kent Bazemore, born on July 1, 1989, is a professional basketball player with an impressive net worth of $30 million as of 2024. Known for his stellar defense and leadership qualities, Bazemore carved out a 10-year NBA career across five teams, peaking with a $19.2 million salary in the 2019-20 season. Off the court, Bazemore has faced significant changes in his personal life, including his 2024 divorce from his longtime partner, Samantha Serpe, with whom he shares two children.

Early Life

Kent Bazemore was born in the small town of Kelford, North Carolina, with a population of just over 200. From an early age, Bazemore showed athletic potential, but it wasn’t until high school that his basketball talent truly started to shine. He attended Bertie High School in Windsor, North Carolina, where he became one of the state’s top prospects, although not heavily recruited by major college programs.

Despite limited recruitment, Bazemore opted to attend Old Dominion University, where he made a significant name for himself. His standout performance came during his junior year when he won the Lefty Driesell Award, recognizing him as the nation’s best defensive player. By the time he graduated, Bazemore had become Old Dominion’s all-time leader in steals, paving the way for his NBA career.

NBA Beginnings

Kent Bazemore’s NBA journey began in 2012, but it wasn’t a smooth start. He went undrafted out of college but was picked up by the Golden State Warriors for their Summer League roster. Known initially for his enthusiastic bench celebrations, Bazemore was a player who didn’t see much playing time during his first two seasons in Golden State. However, he showcased his potential, particularly on the defensive end.

In 2014, Bazemore’s NBA trajectory took a sharp turn when he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. There, he finally got an opportunity to display his talents in extended minutes, averaging an impressive 13.1 points per game over 23 appearances. His performances in Los Angeles began to draw attention from other franchises.

Atlanta Breakthrough

Bazemore’s breakout came when he joined the Atlanta Hawks in 2014. He initially signed a two-year deal but would soon become a key player for the franchise. In 2016, Bazemore secured his financial future by signing a lucrative four-year, $70 million contract with the Hawks. This period marked the most productive years of his NBA career, where he consistently averaged double-digit points and solid defensive stats.

During the 2017-18 season, Bazemore had his best statistical year, averaging 12.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. As a versatile wing player, he became known for his ability to shoot from beyond the arc and provide strong defense, making him a valuable asset in the Hawks’ system.

Later Career

After his successful run with the Hawks, Bazemore was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2019. His time in Portland was brief, playing 43 games before being traded mid-season to the Sacramento Kings. While his numbers declined slightly, Bazemore remained a solid contributor off the bench for both teams.

In 2020, Bazemore returned to the team where his NBA career began, the Golden State Warriors. Although he was no longer the young player bursting with potential, Bazemore provided veteran leadership and a defensive spark off the bench. His contributions helped the Warriors navigate a transitional period as they awaited the return of injured stars.

Bazemore’s final NBA stint to date was with the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2021-2022 season. Although his role was limited, he continued to serve as a reliable veteran presence. Over his 10-year NBA career, Bazemore averaged 8.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.0 steals per game, shooting 35.6% from beyond the arc.

Career Earnings

Over the span of his career, Bazemore earned nearly $79 million in salary. His peak salary came during the 2019-20 season when he earned $19.2 million, solidifying his financial standing. Despite a decline in his on-court performance toward the end of his career, Bazemore’s earnings have positioned him comfortably with an estimated net worth of $30 million.

Personal Life

Off the court, Kent Bazemore’s life has seen significant shifts. He married his longtime girlfriend, Samantha Serpe, in 2017, and the couple welcomed two children. However, by 2024, the couple finalized their divorce. As part of the settlement, Bazemore paid $1.5 million for Samantha’s share of their Atlanta marital home.

Beyond his family life, Bazemore has been heavily involved in charity work. His foundation, the ARMS Foundation, focuses on promoting youth literacy and providing educational opportunities for underprivileged children. Bazemore’s commitment to giving back has earned him respect both within and outside the basketball community.

Legacy

Kent Bazemore’s NBA career may not have been filled with All-Star appearances or championships, but his legacy lies in his work ethic, defensive skills, and leadership qualities. He exemplified the journey of an undrafted player who, through perseverance and dedication, managed to forge a solid career and leave a lasting impact on the teams he played for.

As of 2024, Bazemore remains a respected figure in basketball circles. While his playing days may be behind him, his work off the court, both in charity and potentially coaching or media, ensures that his influence on the game will continue for years to come.

Future Prospects

With retirement from professional basketball looming, Bazemore is likely to explore other ventures. Whether it’s a deeper involvement in charitable work, becoming a mentor to younger players, or entering sports media, Bazemore has a range of options available. His journey from a small-town player to an NBA veteran and community leader speaks volumes about his character and determination.