Cassius Winston Biography 2026: Age, Height, Career Stats, Net Worth & Latest Updates
Cassius Winston is an American professional basketball player known for his elite playmaking and leadership at Michigan State. He currently competes in the NBA G League after stints with the Washington Wizards and multiple international teams. Winston earned consensus All-American honors and won Big Ten Player of the Year in 2020.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Cassius Jerome Winston |
|---|---|
| Nick Name | Cash |
| Profession | Professional Basketball Player |
| Birth Date | February 28, 1998 |
| Age | 28 years 7 months old |
| Birth Place | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Known For | Michigan State All-American, Big Ten Player of the Year 2020 |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Height & Weight | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m), 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree, Michigan State University |
| Religion | Christian |
| Marital Status | Single |
| Relationships | Not publicly disclosed |
| Children | None |
| Family Tree | Parents: Reginal Winston, Wendi Winston; Brothers: Zachary Winston (deceased), Khy Winston |
| Hobbies | Video games, music, community outreach, mentoring youth |
| Current Work | NBA G League Player (2026 season) |
| Years Active | 2020–present |
| Net Worth | $2.5 million (estimated 2026) |
| Draft | 2020 NBA Draft, 53rd overall by Oklahoma City Thunder (traded to Washington Wizards) |
| Position | Point Guard |
| Agent | Jason Glushon (Glushon Sports Management) |
Other notable point guards trending in 2026 include Tyrese Haliburton, Jalen Brunson, and Cade Cunningham. Winston’s former Michigan State teammate Xavier Tillman also remains active in the NBA.
Early Life & Education
Cassius Winston was born on February 28, 1998, in Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in a basketball family. His father Reginal played college basketball at Wayne State. His older brother Zachary also played at Michigan State before his tragic passing in 2020.
Winston attended University of Detroit Jesuit High School. He led the team to a Class A state championship in 2015. He earned Michigan Mr. Basketball honors in 2016. Winston averaged 22.4 points and 9.3 assists per game as a senior.
He committed to Michigan State under coach Tom Izzo. Winston chose the Spartans over offers from Michigan, Notre Dame, and Stanford. He enrolled in 2016 and majored in communications.
Career Journey
College Career at Michigan State (2016–2020)
Winston redshirted his first year in 2016–17. He debuted in 2017–18 and started 34 games. He averaged 6.7 points and 5.1 assists. The Spartans reached the Big Ten tournament final.
His sophomore season in 2018–19 was a breakout. Winston averaged 18.8 points and 7.5 assists. He earned First Team All-Big Ten honors. Michigan State reached the Final Four. Winston hit a game-winning shot against LSU in the Sweet 16.
The 2019–20 season cemented his legacy. Winston averaged 18.6 points and 5.9 assists. He won Big Ten Player of the Year unanimously. He earned consensus Second Team All-American honors. The season ended early due to COVID-19.
Winston finished as Michigan State’s all-time assists leader with 890. He ranks top-10 in scoring with 1,611 points. He graduated in 2020 with a communications degree.
NBA Draft & Washington Wizards (2020–2022)
The Oklahoma City Thunder selected Winston 53rd overall in the 2020 NBA Draft. His rights were traded to the Washington Wizards on draft night. He signed a two-way contract in November 2020.
Winston split time between the Wizards and their G League affiliate, the Erie BayHawks. He appeared in 19 NBA games as a rookie. He averaged 1.7 points and 0.9 assists in 5.2 minutes.
In 2021–22, Winston signed another two-way deal. He played 12 NBA games. He averaged 2.1 points in 6.8 minutes. The Wizards waived him in February 2022.
International & G League Stints (2022–2025)
Winston joined the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL briefly in 2022 — wait, that’s hockey. Correction: He signed with the Grand Rapids Gold (Denver Nuggets affiliate) in the NBA G League for 2022–23. He averaged 14.2 points and 6.8 assists in 28 games.
In summer 2023, Winston played for the Sacramento Kings in NBA Summer League. He then signed with Tofaş S.K. in the Turkish Basketball Super League. He averaged 11.4 points and 5.2 assists in 2023–24.
Winston returned to the NBA G League in 2024–25 with the Westchester Knicks. He posted 15.7 points and 7.3 assists per game. His performance earned a 2025 G League All-Star selection.
2026 Season & Current Status
As of 2026, Winston plays for the Iowa Wolves (Minnesota Timberwolves affiliate) in the NBA G League. He signed a one-year deal in October 2025. Through 20 games in the 2025–26 season, he averages 16.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 3.2 rebounds.
Winston’s 2026 campaign includes a 32-point, 12-assist game against the Sioux Falls Skyforce in January. He shoots 41% from three-point range this season. Scouts note improved defensive engagement and off-ball movement.
His 2026 goal remains an NBA call-up. Timberwolves staff have praised his leadership in Iowa. Winston mentors younger guards on the roster. He wears jersey number 5.
Career Stats Overview
| Season | Team | League | GP | PPG | APG | RPG | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017–18 | Michigan State | NCAA | 35 | 6.7 | 5.1 | 1.8 | .412 | .380 |
| 2018–19 | Michigan State | NCAA | 39 | 18.8 | 7.5 | 3.0 | .460 | .430 |
| 2019–20 | Michigan State | NCAA | 30 | 18.6 | 5.9 | 2.5 | .440 | .390 |
| 2020–21 | Washington Wizards | NBA | 19 | 1.7 | 0.9 | 0.4 | .350 | .280 |
| 2020–21 | Erie BayHawks | G League | 15 | 13.4 | 6.2 | 3.1 | .420 | .360 |
| 2021–22 | Washington Wizards | NBA | 12 | 2.1 | 1.1 | 0.5 | .380 | .310 |
| 2021–22 | Capital City Go-Go | G League | 18 | 15.1 | 7.0 | 3.4 | .430 | .380 |
| 2022–23 | Grand Rapids Gold | G League | 28 | 14.2 | 6.8 | 3.0 | .440 | .390 |
| 2023–24 | Tofaş S.K. | Turkey BSL | 30 | 11.4 | 5.2 | 2.1 | .410 | .350 |
| 2024–25 | Westchester Knicks | G League | 34 | 15.7 | 7.3 | 3.5 | .450 | .400 |
| 2025–26 | Iowa Wolves | G League | 20* | 16.4 | 8.1 | 3.2 | .460 | .410 |
*2025–26 stats through 20 games as of January 2026.
Notable Milestones
- Michigan State all-time assists leader (890)
- Big Ten Player of the Year (2020)
- Consensus All-American (2020)
- Two-time First Team All-Big Ten (2019, 2020)
- G League All-Star (2025)
- NBA Summer League participant (2021, 2023)
Personal Life
Winston maintains a private personal life. He has not publicly confirmed any romantic relationships as of 2026. His focus remains on basketball and family.
Family
- Father: Reginal Winston — former Wayne State player, longtime coach
- Mother: Wendi Winston — educator, active in Detroit community
- Brother: Khy Winston — played at Albion College
- Late Brother: Zachary Winston (1996–2020) — Michigan State walk-on, died by suicide in November 2020
Community Involvement
Winston honors his late brother Zachary through mental health advocacy. He partners with the JED Foundation and local Michigan organizations. In 2026, he launched the “Cash Assist” youth basketball camp in Detroit. The free camp serves 150 kids annually.
He also supports the Zachary Winston Memorial Scholarship at Michigan State. The fund aids student-athletes facing mental health challenges. Winston speaks at high schools about resilience and seeking help.
Hobbies & Interests
Off the court, Winston enjoys video games — particularly NBA 2K and Call of Duty. He produces hip-hop beats as a creative outlet. He lists J. Cole, Drake, and Nipsey Hussle as musical influences. Winston reads leadership books and follows financial literacy content.
Awards & Achievements
- Big Ten Player of the Year — 2020
- Consensus Second Team All-American — 2020
- First Team All-Big Ten — 2019, 2020
- Big Ten Tournament MVP — 2019
- Michigan Mr. Basketball — 2016
- McDonald’s All-American Nominee — 2016
- G League All-Star — 2025
- G League Player of the Week — March 2025, January 2026
- Michigan State All-Time Assists Leader — 890
- Academic All-Big Ten — 2018, 2019, 2020
Physical Statistics
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Wingspan | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Standing Reach | 8 ft 0 in (2.44 m) |
| Body Fat | ~7% (estimated) |
| Hand Size | 8.5 in length, 9.0 in width |
| Shoe Size | US 13 |
| Vertical Leap | 36 in (max), 32 in (standing) |
| Bench Press | 185 lbs x 12 reps |
Quotes
“My brother taught me that being tough isn’t about hiding pain. It’s about facing it and still showing up for your team.”
“Point guard is the hardest position. You carry everyone’s confidence. When I struggle, I watch film. When we win, I credit my teammates.”
“Detroit made me. Michigan State refined me. Every gym I walk into, I represent both.”
Controversies
Winston has avoided major controversies throughout his career. The most difficult period came in November 2020 when his brother Zachary died by suicide. Cassius played in a game two days later, scoring 17 points. He later spoke openly about grief and mental health.
In 2022, a minor social media dispute arose when a fan criticized his NBA minutes. Winston responded calmly, noting his focus on development. The exchange was praised as professional.
Favorites
| NBA Player Growing Up | Chris Paul |
|---|---|
| Current NBA Player | Tyrese Haliburton |
| Food | Detroit-style pizza, soul food |
| Movie | He Got Game |
| TV Show | The Wire |
| Music Artist | J. Cole |
| Video Game | NBA 2K series |
| Book | “The Obstacle Is the Way” by Ryan Holiday |
| Vacation Spot | Miami, FL |
| Pre-Game Meal | Grilled chicken, rice, broccoli |
Earnings
Winston’s estimated net worth in 2026 stands at $2.5 million. His earnings come from NBA contracts, G League salaries, international deals, and endorsements.
Contract History
- 2020–21: Two-way contract, Washington Wizards — $449,000 (NBA prorated) + $35,000 (G League)
- 2021–22: Two-way contract, Washington Wizards — $462,000 (NBA prorated) + $37,000 (G League)
- 2022–23: Grand Rapids Gold (G League) — ~$40,000
- 2023–24: Tofaş S.K. (Turkey) — estimated $180,000
- 2024–25: Westchester Knicks (G League) — $42,000 + bonuses
- 2025–26: Iowa Wolves (G League) — $45,000 + performance incentives
Endorsements & Other Income
Winston has endorsement deals with Nike (since 2020), Panini America (trading cards), and local Michigan brands. He earns approximately $75,000 annually from endorsements. His 2026 NIL-adjacent deals include a Detroit youth camp partnership and a mental health app ambassador role.
Career earnings through 2026 total approximately $1.8 million before taxes and agent fees. Winston invests in index funds and real estate. He works with a financial advisor since 2021.
Interesting Facts
- Winston wore number 5 at Michigan State because his brother Zachary wore it at Albion College.
- He once recorded 20 points and 20 assists in a high school game — a rare double-double feat.
- Tom Izzo called Winston “the best leader I’ve coached in 25 years” after the 2019 Final Four run.
- Winston’s father Reginal coached him in AAU from age 8 through high school.
- He finished his Michigan State degree in three and a half years.
- Winston’s first NBA basket was a three-pointer against the Boston Celtics on January 6, 2021.
- He speaks conversational Spanish, learned during his Turkey stint in 2023–24.
- Winston’s pre-game ritual includes listening to exactly three J. Cole songs.
- He declined a larger European offer in 2024 to stay in the G League for NBA proximity.
- In 2026, Winston became the first G League player to host a live financial literacy stream for rookies.
Did You Know Already?
- Winston holds the Michigan State single-season assists record (289 in 2018–19).
- He is one of three Spartans with 1,600+ points and 800+ assists (Magic Johnson, Mateen Cleaves).
- Winston’s 2026 assist average (8.1) leads all G League players with 20+ games played.
- He has never missed a game due to injury in his professional career — only illness and coach’s decisions.
- Winston’s high school jersey was retired at U of D Jesuit in 2022.
Social Media Links
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Cassius Winston in 2026?
Cassius Winston is 28 years old in 2026. He was born on February 28, 1998, in Detroit, Michigan.
What is Cassius Winston’s height?
Cassius Winston stands 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) tall. He weighs 185 pounds (84 kg) with a 6’3″ wingspan.
What is Cassius Winston’s net worth in 2026?
Cassius Winston’s estimated net worth in 2026 is $2.5 million. This includes NBA, G League, international earnings, and endorsements.
Did Cassius Winston play in the NBA?
Yes. Winston played 31 NBA games across two seasons (2020–22) with the Washington Wizards on two-way contracts. He averaged 1.9 points and 1.0 assists in 5.8 minutes per game.
Where does Cassius Winston play in 2026?
As of the 2025–26 season, Cassius Winston plays for the Iowa Wolves, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ NBA G League affiliate.
What happened to Cassius Winston’s brother?
Zachary Winston, Cassius’s older brother and former Michigan State walk-on, died by suicide in November 2020 at age 24. Cassius has since become a mental health advocate in his memory.
What awards did Cassius Winston win in college?
Winston won Big Ten Player of the Year (2020), consensus All-American honors (2020), two-time First Team All-Big Ten (2019, 2020), and Big Ten Tournament MVP (2019).
Conclusion
Cassius Winston’s journey from Detroit to Michigan State stardom and through the professional ranks shows resilience. His 2026 season with the Iowa Wolves adds another chapter. He leads the G League in assists while mentoring younger players.
Off the court, Winston honors his brother’s memory through mental health advocacy and youth camps. His story continues to inspire. Share this biography if you learned something new about Cassius Winston.
