NBA Legend Rip Hamilton Spends Big for Swanky Encino Compound

Retired NBA baller Richard “Rip” Hamilton is switching coasts, swapping his Florida mansion for an even glitzier one in California. Records reveal the former Detroit Pistons superstar and his longtime wife TJ have just sold their home in Sea Ranch Lakes, an affluent Broward County village near Fort Lauderdale, for nearly $9 million. With his substantial financial gain — the Pennsylvania native picked up the waterfront place seven years ago for “just” $4.3 million — Hamilton has acquired new digs in Los Angeles, doling out just over $9.2 million for a notably grand estate in the San Fernando Valley’s Encino neighborhood.

Known for his trademark clear plastic face mask — he started wearing it during the 2003-04 season because of a twice-broken nose, and subsequently kept it on for the rest of his career to avoid another nasal reconstructive surgery — Hamilton earned about $109 million during his 14 seasons with the Pistons, Washington Wizards and Chicago Bulls. One of the mid best mid-range shooters in the league, the three-time All-Star won the 2004 NBA championship with the Pistons.

Hamilton’s new West Coast spread is nestled in one of Encino’s best neighborhood pockets, and includes seven bedrooms and nine baths spread across 10,000-plus square feet of living space. Originally built in 2002 and once owned by controversial developer Nile Niami, the very private structure is invisible from the street, set down a long driveway on a half-acre flag lot. Balconies line the house, and walls of glass frame views of the grounds. Luxe amenities abound, including an eye-popping library painted emerald green, a wine closet, and a backyard pool/spa combo.

Behind the walls, gates and that lengthy tree-lined driveway, the white stucco home is fronted by a spacious motorcourt — that also doubles as a basketball court — and a two-car garage. A soaring front door opens to a double-height foyer sporting a black-and-white marble checkered floor and sweeping staircase.

Highlights include a fireside living room and formal dining room showcasing custom wallpaper, plus a walk-in wine closet. A gourmet kitchen is outfitted with two marble islands, high-end stainless appliances and a spacious butler’s pantry. An adjacent family room has a fireplace, snack bar, casual dining area and bi-fold doors opening to the backyard.

Particularly standing out is that eye-catching library punctuated by a ceiling boasting five bubble-like chandeliers. along with built-in bookshelves, a wet bar and French doors. Upstairs, the sumptuous master suite is adorned with a fireplace, vaulted ceiling, ornate boiserie-paneled walls, a balcony, and dual baths and walk-in closets.

A large pool surrounded by a cabana and sundeck can be found amid the park-like grounds. Also out back are a wealth of covered patios, a separate al fresco dining/lounge cabana outfitted with a duo of TVs, kitchenette with built-in barbecue and dual firepits. Rounding it all out: a one-bedroom, one-bath guesthouse armed with its own living room and kitchen.