Scott Van Pelt Net Worth

## Scott Van Pelt’s Net Worth: A Look at the ESPN Star’s Wealth and Career

Overview: Scott Van Pelt’s Net Worth

Scott Van Pelt, a prominent figure in sports broadcasting, has amassed a substantial net worth of $25 million. He is best known for his role as the anchor of the 11 p.m. edition of “SportsCenter” on ESPN and the host of “The Scott Van Pelt Show” on ESPN Radio. His career spans several decades, with key roles at ESPN and the Golf Channel, making him one of the most recognizable faces in sports media.

Scott Van Pelt’s ESPN Salary

Scott Van Pelt’s annual salary at ESPN is $6 million. This figure reflects a significant increase from his previous earnings, as he signed a multi-year contract extension with the network in November 2017, roughly doubling his earlier salary. This increase underscores his value to ESPN and his popularity among viewers and listeners.

Early Life and Education

Scott Van Pelt was born on July 9, 1966, in Brookeville, Maryland. Growing up in the Washington, D.C., area, he was influenced by the local sports culture. His parents are Cathie Mathis and Sam Van Pelt, and his grandfather, Lorenzo, had roots in Italy, immigrating to the U.S. and settling in Brooklyn. Van Pelt’s upbringing laid the foundation for his later career in sports broadcasting.

After graduating from Sherwood High School in Sandy Spring, Maryland, he attended the University of Maryland, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in radio/television and film. During his college years, he was an active member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Tragically, his father passed away when Scott was in his early twenties, just as he was concluding his college education. This personal loss likely shaped his perspective and drive.

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Career Highlights and ESPN Journey

Van Pelt began his broadcasting career in 1990 at WTTG-TV, a FOX affiliate station in Washington, D.C. His early experience in local news and sports provided a solid foundation for his future roles. From 1994 to 2000, he worked at the Golf Channel, where he hosted several key programs, including “Golf Central” and “Leaderboard Report.” He also hosted “Viewer’s Forum,” showcasing his versatility as a host. In 1997, he conducted an exclusive half-hour interview with Tiger Woods shortly after Woods won The Masters, titled “Tiger Woods: In His Own Words.”

In 2001, Van Pelt joined ESPN as an anchor for “SportsCenter.” His transition from the Golf Channel to ESPN marked a significant step in his career. At ESPN, he has covered major golf events, including The Masters, the British Open, and the PGA Championship. He also became a prominent figure on ESPN Radio, co-hosting “Tirico and Van Pelt” with Mike Tirico before launching his own show. In 2009, he started his three-hour program, “SVP & Russillo,” which was simulcast on ESPN2 and ESPN2 HD.

In May 2015, ESPN announced that Van Pelt would leave the radio show to anchor a midnight edition of “SportsCenter,” which began airing in late summer 2015. The show quickly gained popularity for its insightful commentary and integration of elements from his radio show. In July 2020, Van Pelt announced that he would be relocating his “SportsCenter” show from Bristol, Connecticut, to Washington, D.C., to be closer to his home and family, a move effective August 2020.

(Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images)

Beyond his main roles, Van Pelt has covered a variety of other events, including USGA events, Buy.com Tour events, and Senior PGA Tour events. He has also provided commentary for golf video games such as “Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10” and “Tiger Woods PGA Tour II” and has appeared in the comic game “Aqua Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am.” His diverse portfolio showcases his adaptability and widespread appeal. He is also a studio presenter for ESPN’s “Friday Night College Football.”

Personal Life and Family

Scott Van Pelt married his wife, Stephanie, in 2011. Together, they have two children: a daughter, Lila Catherine, born in 2012, and a son, Sam, born in 2016. Despite his prominent position in sports, Van Pelt maintains a balanced perspective in his personal life. He is a fan of several local sports teams, including the Maryland Terrapins, the Washington Redskins (now Commanders), the Washington Capitals, the Baltimore Orioles, and the Washington Wizards.

In a touching tribute to his late father, Van Pelt established a scholarship at the Phillip Merril College of Journalism. This philanthropic effort highlights his commitment to education and his desire to give back to his community, funding the scholarship personally.

Real Estate and Investments

In March 2020, Van Pelt invested in a substantial property, purchasing a Georgian Colonial-style estate in Bethesda, Maryland, for $4.25 million. The estate spans 11,519 square feet and includes six bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, a pool, a pool house, an exercise room, and recreational areas. After acquiring the Bethesda home, he listed his previous home in Connecticut, an 8,801-square-foot property that he had purchased in October 2014 for $3 million, on the market for $2 million.

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Legacy and Philanthropic Efforts

Scott Van Pelt has built a lasting legacy through his contributions to sports broadcasting. His career trajectory showcases his talent, versatility, and dedication. Beyond his professional achievements, his personal life, including his family and his philanthropic activities, further enriches his public persona. The scholarship in his father’s memory demonstrates his values and commitment to education and community support.