In the latest basketball news, LeBron James is set to achieve yet another milestone in his illustrious NBA career, this time in financial terms. With his new contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, James is poised to become the first NBA player to surpass $500 million in career salary earnings.
While this amount seems staggering to us normal mortals, this amount is actually not that high compared to other sports like baseball and soccer. But to reach half a billion in career earnings is still a big deal. And this could also mean that more players who prove their worth- and are savvy with contacts- can earn as much as James has.
LeBron James Can Earn Half a Billion in Career Earnings
As of the end of last season, James had accumulated $479,466,457 in NBA salary. His new deal, expected to be at the maximum allowed, would add $49,987,718 for the upcoming season, pushing him well over the $500 million mark. This achievement is unparalleled in NBA history, with no other player, active or retired, having reached even $400 million in career earnings.
Keep in mind that LeBron did not accept his last contract, and is looking to sign a new deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. Many think this has to do with his son Bronny James joining the team. But if you look at the math, getting a new deal will be more profitable for the NBA Superstar. In the last few years, the NBA has had a lot of regulations on the salary cap, restrictions, limits, and other such rules that make it a bit more complicated for players to earn more. Coming up with direct contracts are pretty much a thing of the past- unless you have the leverage to do so. And in the NBA, no other player has shown us how much leverage and power he has over management than James.
Other Sources of Income
James’ financial success extends far beyond his NBA salary. He’s reportedly been a billionaire since at least 2022, thanks to lucrative endorsement deals and savvy business moves. His lifetime contract with Nike alone is estimated to be worth around $1 billion. James has also pioneered the strategy of demanding equity in partnerships, as exemplified by his reported $30 million windfall from Apple’s acquisition of Beats headphones in 2014.
While we cannot compare to his earnings, getting into sports betting can also make us earn more. It won’t be a billion dollar income, but managing a sportsbook during the NBA finals alone can get you a good bottom line if you do it well.
Other NBA Stars Can Be Half Billionaires, Too
While James is the first to reach this salary milestone, he won’t be the last. Kevin Durant is projected to join the $500 million club next year, with Paul George contractually guaranteed to reach it in the future. Stephen Curry also has a chance to achieve this milestone, depending on future contract extensions or signings.
This financial landmark not only highlights James’ enduring value to the NBA but also reflects the league’s growing economic power and the increasing earning potential for its top stars. Hopefully, this could start changing the landscape where NBA players can earn more- not just the superstars, but to raise the average enough to make other players earn more. For you, you can try out this white label sports betting software and be a bookie and earn from NBA betting.
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