In a world full of rapidly growing sports, the NBA has also cemented its position as a globally popular league. However, apart from the blazing dunks, three-pointers, and playoffs, there is one interesting aspect that has captivated both enthusiasts and business buffs alike: the astonishing net worth of the league’s most powerful players. As the NBA continues to grow into one of the most lucrative sports leagues in the world, it is no surprise that the individuals who have contributed to its success have reaped good wealth. Many great players who have left a mark in the game and those who are still making money have a huge net worth. In this article, we will tell you about some of the richest NBA players in the world.
Top 6 Richest Players of NBA
Michael Jordan: $2.2 billion
MJ was born on February 17, 1963. His journey to the NBA began at the University of North Carolina, where he displayed extraordinary talent and led the Tar Heels to the 1982 National Championship. Soon he was selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 1984 NBA draft. His skills as a player took him to unparalleled heights with business ventures and endorsement deals, which played an important role in shaping his net worth. Jordan made partnerships with major companies like Nike, which also launched the “Air Jordan” line of sneakers. This collaboration is still generating billions and has established Jordan as a quintessential figure in sports marketing.
LeBron James : $ 1 billion
LeBron James is still active in the NBA and plays for the LA Lakers. Throughout his career, James has accomplished many things and broken several records. He won four NBA championships with the Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013, the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016, and the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. The L-Train has been selected to the All-NBA First Team an astonishing 13 times and continues to reach the peak of all-time leading scorers, joining the ranks of basketball legends. His net worth is currently $1 billion. This accomplishment distinguishes the Lakers’ star as the first active player in the NBA to join the billionaire ranks. He is the highest-paid active player in the NBA, as he earned a salary of over $385 million during his tenure with the Cavaliers, Heat, and Lakers. Moreover, he has earned an astonishing income of over $900 million through endorsements and business ventures.
Magic Johnson: $620 Million
In the fields of sports and business, Magic Johnson stands out as a great example of a man who has seamlessly worked in multiple fields with amazing success. Johnson had an outstanding basketball personality, but his influence extended beyond the court. With his strategic business acumen and ability to develop lucrative ventures, he has earned an impressive income and net worth. According to a report, Magic earned more than $100 million in 2010 from the sale of 105 Starbucks franchises as well as from an ownership stake of 4.5% in the LA Lakers. Apart from this, his vast business empire includes various sectors like food services, health care, and insurance.
Junior Bridgeman : $600 Million
Bridgeman rose to prominence during his 12-year career in the NBA by averaging 13.6 points per game. Ulysses spent most of his playing days with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he was recognized for his steady play and consistency. He had great shooting guard skills, and although he did not achieve superstar status on the court, it was his off-court efforts that defined his legacy.
Bridgman’s achievements in the restaurant franchise business are remarkable, which earned him the distinction of being a Hall of Famer. Through his smart management and entrepreneurial skills, he raised Bridgman Foods to empire status, boasting a wide network of over 450 franchises. His notable acquisitions include well-known brands such as Wendy’s, Fazoli’s, Chili’s, and Blaze Pizza.
Vinnie Johnson : $ 420 Million
Vinnie was selected No.7 overall in the 1979 NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics. During the 1982-83 season , “The Microwave” averaged 15.8 points per game. Throughout the rest of his career, he mostly played as a key role player coming off the bench. The most amazing thing about him is that even though Vinnie earned $5 Million in the NBA, after retirement he started his own automobile supply company – Piston Group, and made a turnover of $3 Billion.
Shaquille O’Neal : $400 Million
The legend of the game, Shaquille O’Neal, was born in New Jersey on March 6, 1972. His massive size and height made him a dominant force on the court. Shaq was selected in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, after which his professional career began, which led him to the great world of basketball.
O’Neal emerged as a prominent force in marketing and endorsed a diverse range of products and brands. His earnings from both salary and endorsements exceed $800 million, cementing his position among the highest-paid NBA athletes in history. Some of the grand endorsements he has received include partnerships with well-known organizations such as Reebok, Pepsi, Icy Hot, and Buick. During his time in the NBA, Shaq earned a staggering $292 million from salary alone, while the amount generated from his endorsements was over $200 million during the same time. Even after retirement, Shaq earns a good amount of $60 million annually through endorsements and various businesses.
Also Read:- Tallest Basketball Players in the history of NBA
