Herb Simon’s Net Worth: A Deep Dive into the Wealth of the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever Owner
Herbert Simon, born on October 23, 1934, in New York City, is a prominent American businessman renowned for his significant contributions to the real estate industry and professional sports. As of March 2025, his net worth is estimated at approximately $5.04 billion, according to real-time billionaire trackers . This wealth is primarily derived from his co-founding of Simon Property Group, the world’s largest real estate investment trust (REIT), and his ownership of the NBA’s Indiana Pacers and the WNBA’s Indiana Fever.
Raised in the Bronx, New York, Simon graduated from the City College of New York with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. In 1960, he and his brother Melvin founded the precursor to Simon Property Group, which began by developing strip malls in Indianapolis. Over the decades, the company expanded its portfolio to include 230 properties globally, with 196 located in the United States .
Under Simon’s leadership, Simon Property Group became a dominant force in retail real estate. The company’s portfolio includes premier shopping malls, outlet centers, and lifestyle centers across North America, Europe, and Asia. The firm’s success is attributed to its strategic acquisitions, such as the purchase of Chelsea Property Group and Taubman Centers, which expanded its reach and market share .
In February 2025, at the age of 90, Simon retired as chairman emeritus of Simon Property Group . Despite his retirement, he remains a significant figure in the company and the broader real estate industry.
In 1983, Simon and his late brother Melvin purchased the Indiana Pacers for $10.5 million. Over the years, the team’s value has appreciated significantly. As of 2024, Forbes estimated the Pacers’ value at $2.9 billion, making it one of the most valuable franchises in the NBA .
Simon’s ownership extends beyond the Pacers; he also owns the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. His involvement in professional sports has been marked by a commitment to community engagement and team development. In recognition of his contributions to basketball, Simon was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024 as a contributor .
Simon has been married three times and has eight children. His third wife, Porntip Bui Nakhirunkanok, was crowned Miss Universe in 1988. The couple has two biological children and adopted three of Nakhirunkanok’s nieces and nephews after their mother’s passing .
Beyond his business ventures, Simon is dedicated to philanthropy. He established the Herbert Simon Family Foundation, which supports various charitable causes, including education, healthcare, and community development. The foundation reflects Simon’s commitment to giving back to the community and making a positive impact beyond his business endeavors.
Herbert Simon’s journey from a young entrepreneur in New York to a billionaire real estate mogul and sports team owner is a testament to his vision, perseverance, and business acumen. With a diversified portfolio spanning real estate, professional sports, and philanthropy, Simon has left an indelible mark on multiple industries. As of 2025, his estimated net worth of $5.04 billion underscores his status as one of the most influential figures in American business and sports.
