Described as “an original Bulls great” by Chicago Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf, Bob Love joined the team in 1968, two years after the franchise was established in 1966. He averaged an estimated 21 points per game, exhibiting a level of competition and defense that influenced future ballers within the league even after his retirement following the 1976-77 season. His jersey number, 10, was retired in 1994 after 17 years of retirement and nine years dedicated to the Bulls franchise. Love even loved the franchise so much that he got married on the court during the halftime of a game against the San Antonio Spurs at the Chicago United Center in 1995. Now, with his recent passing following a prolonged battle with cancer, fans are wondering about Love’s net worth. Here’s what we know.
Love Came From Humble Beginnings
Love grew up in northern Louisiana as one of 14 children and was lovingly referred to as “Butterbean” due to his love for lima beans. His talent for basketball would develop throughout his youth, helping him land acceptance into Southern University in Baton Rouge where he played collegiate basketball. Initially, Love was drafted in the fourth round of the NBA Draft in 1965 by the Cincinnati Royals. He would go on to join the Milwaukee Bucks ahead of being traded to the Chicago Bulls. There, Love reached his peak as a baller, allowing him to accrue an estimated $4 million net worth in his last years.
All-NBA and All-Defensive Player
With more than a decade on the court, Love was named the lead scorer of the organization for seven seasons. He became only the second Bulls player to have their jersey number pulled out of circulation. In addition to being named All-NBA and All-Defensive player within the NBA, Reinsdorf said it was also his toughness that set him apart as a baller and characterized his game. He averaged 17.6 points and 5.9 rebounds in 789 career games, including the Nets and Seattle SuperSonics. This would not be the end of how Love continued to make an impact on and through the NBA.
In His Retirement, He Overcame Stuttering, Gained Work and Gave Back
Love left the Bulls as a player, but he joined as an ambassador. This was after struggling to find a job, getting one as a dishwasher at Nordstrom’s and being held back by a severe stuttering problem. However, with the help of a speech therapist with funding from Nordstrom’s director John Nordstrom, Love was able to becom the Bulls’ Director of Community Affairs. He became known for his speeches, having delivered hundreds per year since 1992. Through his speeches, he encouraged young people to stay inspired. Love dedicated himself to an array of charitable causes. Love’s work ethic and commitment to community garnered his induction into the Bulls’ “Ring of Honor Class.” He is survived by his lasting impact on the organization and wife Rachel Dixon.
