Manute Bol (d. June 19, 2010) was a Sudanese-American professional basketball player and political activist. Standing 7 ft 6 in, he was one of the tallest players in NBA history. After playing for Bridgeport Purple Knights, he was drafted by the Washington Bullets in 1985.
His NBA career (1985–1995) included stints with four teams. A dominant shot-blocker, he retired with more blocks than points, ranking second all-time in blocks per game (as of March 2024). Bol was also known for his human rights work in Sudan.
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Manute Bol Net Worth
Manute Bol had a net worth of $7 million at the time of his death. He played 10 seasons in the NBA (1985–1995) with the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat.
His highest-paying contract was with the 76ers in 1992 for $1.6 million. His total NBA salary earnings amounted to $5.9 million. Below is a breakdown of his contracts and salaries during his career.
Early Life
Manute Bol was born in Turalei, Sudan, to Madut and Okwok Bol, members of the Dinka people. His name means “special blessing” in Dinka. His birth year is uncertain; October 16, 1962, was listed for U.S. immigration, though some believe he was much older.
Bol avoided military service, helped raise livestock, and later pursued education. Standing 7 ft 7 in, he came from an extraordinarily tall family. He played for Sudan’s national team, and dreamed of joining the NBA after seeing American basketball footage.
Career
Manute Bol turned professional in May 1985, signing with the Rhode Island Gulls in the United States Basketball League. He entered the 1985 NBA Draft to help his sister escape Sudan’s unrest. The Washington Bullets selected him 31st overall. Weighing 180 pounds, Bol began strength training.
During his rookie season (1985–86), he played 80 games, averaging 5.0 blocks per game, and recorded a career-high 12 blocks and 18 points in one game. He set the NBA rookie block record with 397 blocks, second only to Mark Eaton.
Personal Life
Manute Bol had six children with his first wife, Atong, and four with his second wife, Ajok. His son Madut played college basketball at Southern University. Another son, Bol Bol (born November 16, 1999), is an NBA player. Bol was Catholic and spoke Dinka and Arabic before learning English.
In 1988, he was arrested twice for driving while intoxicated. He ran a basketball school in Cairo, where Luol Deng was a pupil. In 2004, Bol suffered a car accident, resulting in a broken neck.
What syndrome did Manute Bol have?
Manute Bol, a 47-year-old Sudan native, died at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville. He was being treated for kidney failure and a painful skin condition called Stevens–Johnson Syndrome (SJS).
Conclusion
Manute Bol’s legacy transcends his basketball achievements, remembered as much for his humanitarian work as his unique presence on the court. His life story is a testament to the impact one individual can have, both in their professional field and in philanthropic endeavors.
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FAQs about Manute Bol
- What teams did Manute Bol play for in the NBA?
- Bol played for the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat.
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