Top-dollar dunks: The NBA’s richest players of all time

August 30, 2023

Basketball reigns supreme as a fan-favorite sport, not just in America, but around the globe. With the NBA pulling in a jaw-dropping $7 to $10 billion every season, it’s no wonder the league’s players are raking in the big bucks.

When it comes to the wealthiest in the NBA, names like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade often come to mind. These iconic athletes not only earn colossal salaries but also boost their income through endorsements and savvy investments. Curious to find out who tops the list of richest NBA players? Stay tuned for the latest updates on their jaw-dropping net worth—you might be in for some surprises!

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15. Dwight Howard

Standing at 6ft 11, Dwight Howard is not just wealthy but also incredibly accomplished. An NBA champion and an eight-time All-Star, Howard has been honored with multiple All-NBA Team and All-Defensive Team selections, along with three Defensive Player of the Year awards. Dwight Howard’s current net worth is $140 million, bolstered by a $23 million annual salary with the Lakers.

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14. Steph Curry

Known as the NBA’s premier sharpshooter, Steph Curry’s financial portfolio is equally impressive. Currently under a five-year contract worth over $201 million, Curry is one of the league’s top earners. Endorsement deals with prominent brands like Under Armour and Rakuten further inflate his net worth to $160 million.

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13. James Harden

James Harden commands a salary of $44 million and is renowned for his scoring abilities, having led the NBA in points three times. An eight-time All-Star, Harden’s achievements include an Olympic gold medal in 2012. His estimated net worth is $165 million.

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12. Dwyane Wade

Dwyane Wade’s career skyrocketed after signing a lucrative contract in 2007-2008, inflating his salary to $20 million before his 2019 retirement. Endorsements and partnerships have swelled his net worth to $170 million.

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11. Kevin Durant

With an annual salary of $40 million, Kevin Durant ranks among the highest-paid basketball players worldwide. Beyond the court, Durant’s investments in early-stage tech companies add to his impressive $200 million net worth.

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10. Hakeem Olajuwon

Nicknamed “The Dream,” Hakeem Olajuwon devoted nearly 18 years to the NBA and achieved monumental success, including two championship titles with the Houston Rockets. His current net worth stands at $200 million.

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9. David Robinson

David Robinson, affectionately known as “The Admiral,” owns a minority share in the San Antonio Spurs. A 10-time All-Star and an NBA MVP, Robinson’s career earnings amount to $200 million.

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8. Grant Hill

Throughout his 18-year career, Grant Hill amassed a fortune, largely from hefty contracts with teams like the Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic. With numerous endorsements to his name, Hill’s net worth is now $250 million.

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7. Vinnie Johnson

Vinnie Johnson, dubbed “The Microwave” for his unique playing style, has transitioned to a successful entrepreneur post-retirement. His company, Piston Group, brings in billions annually, elevating his net worth to $400 million.

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6. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal has diversified his career beyond basketball to include acting, business, and sports analysis. With a net worth of $400 million, Shaq is a financial powerhouse.

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5. LeBron James

LeBron James, one of the all-time greats in basketball history, has a net worth of $500 million, gained from sizable contracts and a myriad of endorsements.

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4. Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant was a legend both on and off the court. At the time of his tragic passing, his net worth was $600 million, partly due to his foresight in Bitcoin investments.

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3. Junior Bridgeman

Junior Bridgeman transitioned from basketball to business, owning numerous franchises and media outlets. Despite modest NBA earnings, he’s accumulated a net worth of $600 million.

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2. Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson, the NBA’s point guard extraordinaire, has turned entrepreneur with a net worth of $600 million, thanks to smart investments in franchises and businesses.

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1. Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan stands alone as the NBA’s only billionaire, with a net worth of $1.7 billion, thanks to enormous sponsorships and savvy business endeavors.