The numbers tell a staggering story. Trevor Ariza, who earned more than $116 million across 18 NBA seasons, recently submitted a financial declaration in court showing he made just $2,316 last month. The former Los Angeles Laker and 2009 NBA champion laid out his finances as part of an ongoing legal battle with his ex-wife, Bree Anderson Ariza.
Ariza now works as a trainer for disabled individuals, a role that pays approximately $6,000 per month on average. But his most recent month fell far short of that figure. The court filing, obtained from family court proceedings, also revealed a small monthly return from a Buffalo Wild Wings investment, just $667.
The former small forward didn’t stop at income. He listed $11,600 in monthly expenses, a figure that significantly exceeds his reported earnings. Healthcare consumes $2,000 each month. Groceries cost another $2,000. Utilities add $2,000 more. Education expenses run $2,000, while auto and insurance payments hit $2,000 as well.
Cleaning and laundry services add $500. Clothing costs another $500. Ariza also claims he pays $7,700 monthly in child support for children from other relationships. When combined, his listed obligations far outpace his current earnings.
The financial disclosure does show remaining value. Ariza reported approximately $50,000 in cash and bank accounts. He also owns $2.5 million in real property. His living situation includes his girlfriend, Kristy, her two children, his 14-year-old son, and his aunt all under one roof.
The contrast between his career earnings and current declared monthly income raises questions about how quickly professional athletes can lose financial stability. Ariza played for nine NBA teams, won a championship with the Lakers in 2009, and retired as a respected veteran. Yet his court filing paints a picture of someone struggling to cover basic monthly costs despite holding millions in real estate.
The legal battle continues as both sides present financial evidence. For fans who watched Ariza guard the league’s best players for nearly two decades, the court documents offer an unexpected and sobering post-retirement portrait.
