Has any NBA player sold their ring?

Answered by Cody Janus

There have been NBA players who have sold their championship rings. While it is not a common occurrence, there have been instances where players have chosen to part ways with their rings for various reasons.

One notable example is the case of Sasha Vujacic, a former NBA player who won two championship rings with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009 and 2010. In 2014, Vujacic decided to sell his championship rings through an auction. The reason behind his decision was not explicitly stated, but it is believed that financial considerations played a role.

Another instance involved former NBA player and coach, Paul Westhead. Westhead won an NBA championship as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers in 1980. However, due to financial difficulties, he sold his championship ring in 1990 to help manage his expenses. It was a difficult decision for Westhead, but he felt it was necessary at the time.

It’s worth mentioning that selling championship rings is not limited to NBA players. In the world of sports, athletes from various disciplines have also chosen to sell their prestigious rings. This could be due to financial reasons, personal circumstances, or simply a desire to move on from their playing career.

In some cases, players may choose to donate their championship rings to charitable causes. For example, in the case you mentioned about Slava Medvedenko, SCP Auctions donated the entire final sale price of his championship rings to Medvedenko’s Fly High Foundation. This demonstrates how athletes can use the value of their rings to make a positive impact on society.

It’s important to note that the decision to sell or part ways with a championship ring is a personal one for each player. While it may be difficult for some to let go of such a symbol of their accomplishments, others may prioritize different aspects of their lives or have financial considerations that lead them to make that choice.

While it is not a common occurrence, there have been NBA players who have sold their championship rings. The reasons behind these decisions can vary, from financial difficulties to personal circumstances. Some players may choose to sell their rings, while others may opt to donate them to charitable causes. Ultimately, it is a personal choice that each player must make based on their own circumstances and priorities.