Last Updated on December 26, 2024 by Mathew Diekhake

Here’s a detailed look at Paul Pierce’s contract history during his Hall of Fame NBA career:

1. Rookie Contract with Boston Celtics (1998–2002)

  • Draft Year: 1998 (10th overall pick)
  • Contract Value: 4 years, $6.1 million (rookie scale)
  • Details:
    • Pierce quickly became a cornerstone for the Celtics, earning All-Rookie First Team honors in 1999.
    • His early performances set him up for a lucrative extension.

2. First Extension with Boston Celtics (2001–2008)

  • Contract Value: 6 years, $79 million
  • Details:
    • Signed a max contract extension in 2001 after establishing himself as a franchise player.
    • During this period, Pierce became a perennial All-Star and led the Celtics to the playoffs multiple times.

3. Second Extension with Boston Celtics (2006–2014)

  • Contract Value: 6 years, $98 million
  • Details:
    • Signed in 2006, this extension cemented Pierce as a lifelong Celtic (at the time).
    • In 2008, Pierce led Boston to an NBA Championship, earning Finals MVP honors.
    • This deal carried through the prime of his career, maintaining his position as a highly paid superstar.

4. Re-Signing with Boston Celtics (2010)

  • Contract Value: 4 years, $61 million
  • Details:
    • After opting out of the final year of his previous deal, Pierce signed a new contract in 2010 to remain with the Celtics.
    • The contract allowed the Celtics to manage their cap space while keeping their core intact.

5. Contracts After Leaving Boston (2013–2017)

Brooklyn Nets (2013–2014):

  • Contract inherited via trade. Pierce earned $15.3 million in the final year of his Celtics deal.

Washington Wizards (2014–2015):

  • Contract Value: 2 years, $11 million
  • Details:
    • Signed as a veteran free agent, providing leadership and clutch performances for the Wizards.
    • Opted out after one year to explore other opportunities.

Los Angeles Clippers (2015–2017):

  • Contract Value: 3 years, $10.5 million
  • Details:
    • Joined the Clippers to reunite with former Celtics coach Doc Rivers.
    • Played a reduced role before retiring in 2017.

Career Earnings Overview:

  • Total Career Earnings: Approximately $200 million from NBA contracts.

Key Legacy:

Paul Pierce’s contracts reflect a player who was consistently valued as a franchise cornerstone. His loyalty to the Boston Celtics and clutch playoff performances cemented his place as one of the greatest small forwards in NBA history.