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Oscar Robertson, 86, was honoured with the 2025 Arthur Ashe Award for Courage at this year's ESPY Awards in Los Angeles, recognising his pivotal role in transforming the NBA's free agency system. The former Milwaukee Bucks and Cincinnati Royals star, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, was celebrated not only for his record-setting career stats but also for his groundbreaking legal battle that changed the structure of professional basketball.

How Old Is Oscar Robertson in 2025?

Robertson was born on 24 November 1938, which makes him 86 years old as of July 2025. Despite his advanced age, the former NBA star remains actively engaged in the basketball world. His presence at the 2025 ESPY Awards, where he was honoured for his pioneering role in reshaping NBA labour rights, proved that his influence continues to span generations.

Often referred to as 'The Big O', Robertson played during a time when the league was still evolving. His achievements, both in statistics and social reform, have cemented his place as one of the sport's most enduring figures.

Oscar Robertson's Net Worth Today

According to CelebrityNetWorth, Robertson's estimated net worth in 2025 stands at around $200 million (£150 million). While modest by today's NBA standards, this figure reflects a career shaped more by legacy than by commercial gain.

During his playing days, athlete salaries were a fraction of what they are now. Despite this, Robertson was instrumental in laying the groundwork for modern free agency and the skyrocketing salaries enjoyed by players today.

His role in the historic antitrust lawsuit against the NBA in 1970, which led to the introduction of the 'Oscar Robertson Rule', helped dismantle the league's reserve clause. The ruling paved the way for greater freedom in player movement and contract negotiations across all professional sports.

Oscar Robertson Stats That Made Him a Legend

Robertson is perhaps best known for being the first player in NBA history to average a triple-double over an entire season. During the 1961–62 season, he recorded an astonishing 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds and 11.4 assists per game, according to NBA.com.

Over the course of his 14-year NBA career, Robertson amassed more than 26,000 points, nearly 10,000 assists and over 7,800 rebounds. His accolades include 12 All-Star selections, one MVP award (1964), nine All-NBA First Team honours and an NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in 1971, where he played a pivotal role alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

His dominance as a 'big guard' redefined what was possible from the position, influencing future generations of players such as Magic Johnson, Russell Westbrook and LeBron James, all of whom cite him as a foundational figure in their development.

A Lasting Legacy On and Off the Court

Beyond statistics, Oscar Robertson's most profound impact may be felt in the modern NBA's structure. As president of the NBA Players Association from 1965 to 1974, he fought tirelessly for players' rights at a time when the league offered few protections.

His efforts were recently recognised with the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage, a tribute to both his athletic excellence and his enduring commitment to social change. His fight against racial injustice and economic inequity within the sport has inspired athletes worldwide.

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