Seems that we’re always reading a story about some performer or athlete that has made millions of dollars over the course of his career only to squander it all.  Mike Tyson springs to mind. 

Now consider Hakeem Olajuwon. 

Olajuwon, a Nigerian émigré, played a long career with the NBA, leading his team to two championships in the process. 

And in the 10 years since hanging up his basketball shoes he’s managed to earn as much money in real estate as he did during his 17 years with the NBA. 
Olajuwon’s strategy has been described as “unorthodox yet disciplined.”  But no one can doubt his effectiveness.  Based on estimates his earnings in the real estate market easily exceed $100 million. 

Check out the excellent article in the New York Times.