LeBron James, often hailed as “The Chosen One,” has not only left an indelible mark on the basketball court but has also solidified his position as one of the most successful athletes in terms of off-the-court ventures. With a career that spans two decades, James has amassed an impressive on-court resume, and his financial success has reached staggering heights.
Since his entry into the NBA in 2003 at the age of 18, James has achieved numerous milestones, including becoming the league’s all-time leading scorer, making 10 NBA Finals trips, winning four NBA titles, and earning a spot on the All-NBA first team 13 times. However, it is his off-the-court game that sets him apart.
LeBron James: A Force On and Off the Court
According to estimates, James’ career earnings from salaries and endorsements are projected to reach an astounding $1.4 billion by the end of the current season. This places him in elite company, trailing only the likes of Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and Cristiano Ronaldo among the highest-earning athletes of all time. Apart from his basketball-related income, James has made strategic investments in various companies and has even established a school in his hometown of Akron, Ohio.
In the 2023-24 NBA season, James is set to earn approximately $128 million, a figure that surpasses any other player in the league by a margin of 25%. This substantial income reflects the soaring player salaries in the NBA and the global appeal that star players like James possess.
Financial Success of NBA stars
The financial success of NBA superstars extends beyond their on-court performances. In fact, the top 15 players in the league are projected to earn over $1 billion collectively this season, with a significant portion of their income stemming from off-the-court sources. Following James on the list of highest-earning players are Stephen Curry ($101.9 million), Giannis Antetokounmpo ($90.6 million), Kevin Durant ($88.4 million), and Klay Thompson ($64.2 million).
Both James and Curry, despite being in the latter stages of their careers, continue to captivate audiences and remain must-see TV. Their combined dominance over the years, winning six MVP titles between 2008-09 and 2015-16 and making a total of 16 NBA Finals appearances, has solidified their status as marketing powerhouses. James and Curry’s estimated off-court earnings of $80 million and $50 million, respectively, are the highest in the sport.
Last season, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors faced challenges in the regular season but managed to secure playoff berths. The NBA’s TV partners were thrilled when both teams triumphed in the first round against higher-seeded opponents. Their subsequent head-to-head matchup became the most-watched semifinal series in nearly three decades, demonstrating the enduring appeal of these two superstars.
James boasts an impressive endorsement portfolio that includes brands such as AT&T, Beats, Crypto.com, GMC, and PepsiCo. Similarly, Curry endorses companies like Callaway, CarMax, Rakuten, and Subway. However, the most significant source of income for both players lies in their shoe contracts. In 2019, James signed a lifetime deal with Nike, which earns him over $30 million annually. Curry, on the other hand, recently extended his partnership with Under Armour and assumed the role of president for UA’s Curry Brand. As part of this collaboration, he received $75 million worth of restricted stock units, vesting in 2029 and 2034.
LeBron James continues to dominate both on and off the court, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of basketball. With his remarkable earnings and diverse business ventures, he has set new standards for financial success in professional sports. As his career progresses, James continues to inspire aspiring athletes and entrepreneurs alike, proving that dedication, talent, and business acumen can lead to unparalleled achievements both within and beyond the game.