De’Andre Hunter has become one of the most reliable and versatile forwards in the NBA. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to score in clutch moments, Hunter’s journey from Philadelphia to the Cleveland Cavaliers is a story of resilience, growth, and quiet determination. As he continues to make an impact on the court, fans and analysts alike are eager to learn more about his personal life, career earnings, and financial success.
De’Andre Hunter’s Biography
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | De’Andre James Hunter |
| Date of Birth | December 2, 1997 |
| Age | 27 |
| Education | Friends’ Central School (High School), University of Virginia (College) |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) |
| Weight | 221 lbs (100 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2019 (NBA Draft) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $20–25 million |
| Salary (2024-25) | $21,696,429 |
| Career Earnings | Over $73 million |
| Wife/Girlfriend | Partner’s name undisclosed; has one daughter (born 2024) |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
De’Andre Hunter’s early basketball journey is a story of perseverance, growth, and standout achievements that set the stage for his professional career. Born on December 2, 1997, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Hunter grew up in the Lawncrest neighborhood. He attended Friends’ Central School in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, where his basketball talent quickly became apparent.
As a junior, Hunter averaged 21.6 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, earning him the Pennsylvania Class AA Player of the Year award. His senior year was equally impressive, with averages of 23.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game, confirming his reputation as one of the top high school players in the state.
Hunter’s high school career wasn’t without challenges. He missed his entire sophomore season due to a broken leg, but he returned stronger and led his team to a state title as a junior.
His resilience and determination shone through, and by the end of high school, he was rated as a four-star recruit, ranked 72nd overall and the 14th-best small forward in the 2016 class. He received multiple scholarship offers but ultimately committed to the University of Virginia in September 2015, choosing the Cavaliers over other programs like NC State and Notre Dame.
At Virginia, Hunter’s college career began with a redshirt year, allowing him to develop physically and mentally for the demands of high-level college basketball. During his redshirt freshman season, he made an immediate impact, scoring in double figures in 16 games and earning the ACC Sixth Man of the Year award as well as a spot on the All-ACC Freshman Team.
He averaged 9.2 points and 3.5 rebounds per game that season. However, his freshman year ended on a tough note when he broke his wrist during the ACC tournament, forcing him to miss the NCAA tournament. Without Hunter, Virginia, a number one seed, suffered a historic upset loss to UMBC, the first time a number one seed lost to a 16 seed in tournament history.
Professional Career
De’Andre Hunter’s professional career began in dramatic fashion during the 2019 NBA Draft. He was selected fourth overall by the Los Angeles Lakers, but his rights were quickly traded to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the blockbuster Anthony Davis deal. Shortly after, Hunter was moved again—this time to the Atlanta Hawks, who saw him as a key piece for their rebuilding roster.
He signed with Atlanta in July 2019 and made his NBA debut on October 24, 2019, starting and scoring 14 points in a win over the Detroit Pistons. Hunter quickly established himself as a starter, known for his defensive versatility and ability to knock down shots from the perimeter.
During his rookie season, Hunter started 62 out of 63 games, averaging 12.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. His solid play and maturity on the court earned him a reputation as a reliable two-way wing. In his second season, Hunter took a big step forward, averaging 17.2 points and 5.4 rebounds before a knee injury interrupted his momentum.
Despite the setback, he was named to the NBA Rising Stars roster, highlighting his status as one of the league’s promising young talents. Unfortunately, his season was cut short by arthroscopic knee surgery in February 2021 and then a meniscus repair in June, which kept him out for the rest of the playoffs.
Hunter’s resilience showed as he returned for the 2021–22 season, where he played 53 games and averaged 13.4 points and 3.3 rebounds. He delivered a standout performance in the playoffs, scoring a career-high 35 points and grabbing 11 rebounds against the Miami Heat, even though the Hawks were eliminated in that series.
His ability to step up in big moments solidified his role as a core player for Atlanta. Recognizing his value, the Hawks signed Hunter to a four-year, $95 million contract extension in October 2022, securing his future with the franchise.
De’Andre Hunter’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, De’Andre Hunter’s net worth is estimated to be between $20 million and $25 million.
Contract
De’Andre Hunter is currently playing under a four-year, $95 million contract extension that he originally signed with the Atlanta Hawks in October 2022. This fully guaranteed deal runs through the end of the 2026–27 NBA season and reflects the high value teams place on his versatile skill set and defensive abilities.
After being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in February 2025, the Cavaliers assumed the remainder of this contract. Hunter’s annual salary increases each season, starting at $20,089,286 in 2023–24 and rising to $24,910,714 by the final year. This lucrative contract secures his financial future and confirms his status as one of the league’s dependable and well-compensated forwards.
Salary
For the 2024–25 NBA season, De’Andre Hunter is earning a base salary of $21,696,429 with the Cleveland Cavaliers. This amount places him among the higher-paid players on the team and reflects his established role as a reliable two-way forward.
His salary is set to increase in the following years, with $23,303,571 scheduled for the 2025–26 season and $24,910,714 for 2026–27, as outlined in his current contract. Hunter’s consistent performance and ability to contribute on both ends of the court have helped him secure this substantial salary, highlighting his value in the league.
Career Earnings
| Season | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 2019–20 | Atlanta Hawks | $6,626,588 |
| 2020–21 | Atlanta Hawks | $7,422,000 |
| 2021–22 | Atlanta Hawks | $7,775,400 |
| 2022–23 | Atlanta Hawks | $9,835,881 |
| 2023–24 | Atlanta Hawks | $20,089,286 |
| 2024–25 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $21,696,429 |
| 2025–26 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $23,303,571 |
| 2026–27 | Cleveland Cavaliers | $24,910,714 |
NBA Career Stats
| Season | Team | GP | GS | MIN | FG% | 3P% | FT% | REB | AST | STL | BLK | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019–20 | Atlanta Hawks | 63 | 62 | 32.0 | 41.0 | 35.5 | 76.4 | 4.5 | 1.8 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 12.3 |
| 2020–21 | Atlanta Hawks | 23 | 19 | 29.5 | 48.4 | 32.6 | 85.9 | 4.8 | 1.9 | 0.8 | 0.5 | 15.0 |
| 2021–22 | Atlanta Hawks | 53 | 52 | 29.8 | 44.2 | 37.9 | 76.5 | 3.3 | 1.3 | 0.7 | 0.4 | 13.4 |
| 2022–23 | Atlanta Hawks | 67 | 67 | 31.7 | 46.1 | 35.0 | 82.6 | 4.2 | 1.4 | 0.5 | 0.3 | 15.4 |
| 2023–24 | Atlanta Hawks | 57 | 37 | 29.5 | 45.9 | 38.5 | 84.7 | 3.9 | 1.5 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 15.6 |
| 2024–25 | ATL/CLE Cavaliers | 50 | 7 | 27.7 | 47.0 | 41.6 | 85.5 | 4.0 | 1.4 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 17.8 |
| Career | ATL/CLE Cavaliers | 327 | 246 | 30.0 | 45.2 | 37.3 | 81.9 | 4.1 | 1.5 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 14.8 |
FAQs
1. Where was De’Andre Hunter born and what is his early background?
Hunter was born on December 2, 1997, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He played high school basketball at Friends’ Central School, earning state accolades and recognition as one of Pennsylvania’s top prospects.
2. What college did Hunter attend and what impact did he have?
He attended the University of Virginia, playing under coach Tony Bennett. Hunter helped Virginia win the 2019 NCAA Championship, scoring a career-best 27 points in the title game and winning the NABC Defensive Player of the Year award.
3. What position does Hunter play and what are his physical attributes?
Hunter is a small forward who also plays power forward. He stands 6 feet 8 inches tall, weighs 221 pounds, and is known for his strong wingspan and athletic versatility on both ends of the court.
4. When was Hunter drafted in the NBA and by which team?
Hunter was selected fourth overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers and was immediately traded to the Atlanta Hawks. He signed his rookie contract and debuted for Atlanta in October 2019.
5. What are Hunter’s career averages and notable achievements?
Through the end of the 2024–25 season, Hunter has averaged 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 318 games. He posted a career-high 35 points against Milwaukee and has scored in double figures in 80% of games.
6. How has Hunter performed in the NBA Playoffs?
Hunter helped Atlanta reach the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, consistently starting and averaging 13.9 points in the postseason. He recorded multiple 20-point playoff games and delivered reliable defense on top scorers.
7. Has Hunter faced any injuries in his NBA career?
Hunter has dealt with knee and wrist injuries, missing stretches in the 2021–22 and 2022–23 seasons. He underwent wrist surgery in December 2022 but returned to form after diligent rehab.
8. What is Hunter’s contract status and future outlook?
He signed a four-year, $90 million extension with Atlanta in 2022, keeping him under contract through the 2026–27 season. The Hawks rely on his defense, scoring, and matchup flexibility as a core member of their rotation.
9. What strengths has Hunter displayed to earn his reputation?
Hunter is valued for his perimeter defense, midrange shooting, and willingness to guard top opponents. Coaches highlight his ability to shut down scorers and hit timely shots under pressure.
10. What are Hunter’s contributions and leadership roles off the court?
Hunter participates in youth basketball camps, mentoring Philadelphia-area players and supporting Atlanta community causes. He is recognized for professionalism, quiet leadership, and supporting young teammates.
