At one time, Vin Baker was an all-star and averaging a double-double in the NBA. Now, the No. 8 overall pick in the 1993 draft earns money in a decidedly different way.
Baker made millions while playing in the NBA but, unfortunately, does not have much left of it. A battle with alcoholism during his career, having others handle his money and not keeping track of it, and exorbitant spending led to Baker’s fortune being squandered away. Today, you can find him working at a Starbucks in Rhode Island where he’s hoping to land a management position.
“In this company there are opportunities for everyone. I have an excellent situation here at Starbucks and the people are wonderful,” Baker told the Providence Journal.
We have seen countless athletes who have been in similar situations, having signed lucrative contracts during their playing days only to be left looking around to wonder where it all went in retirement. While Baker is one of the many, he’s determined reinvent himself.
“I was an alcoholic, I lost a fortune. I had a great talent and lost it. For the people on the outside looking in, they’re like ‘Wow.’ For me, I’m 43 and I have four kids. I have to pick up the pieces. I’m a father. I’m a minister in my father’s church. I have to take the story and show that you can bounce back. If I use my notoriety in the right way, most people will appreciate that this guy is just trying to bounce back in his life.”
Now 43, Baker is not old by any means. He’s still young enough to show those who may feel he ruined his left that he isn’t finished quite yet. Baker overcame his problem with alcohol and has a better understanding of how to manage the money he earns now. That certainly bodes well for he and his family going forward. We can only hope things continue on the upward swing.
