Over the past decade, LeBron James has dominated the NBA financially. Among his peers, no player has earned more than him in combined salary and endorsement deals.
This 2024-25 season, however, James is no longer the highest-paid NBA player. Instead, the honor goes to Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, who has beaten James for the No. 1 spot by $22.1 million.
James is set to earn $133.7 million this campaign, thanks to his $48.7 million salary with the Lakers and $85 million in endorsements. Curry, for his part, is poised to get $155.8 million due to his $55.8 million salary and $100 million worth of endorsements, according to Sportico.
For what it's worth, James was the highest-paid player in the NBA in the past 11 years. Before Curry surpassed him this 2024-25, the last player to earn more than him was Kobe Bryant in 2012-13.
Steph Curry's 2024-25 earnings are reportedly boosted by his Under Armour deal, which is said to be one of the most lucrative endorsements.
"Curry has been one of the NBA’s most marketable players for the past decade, and his off-court earnings of $100 million received a bump this year tied to his long-term Under Armour contract extension," Kurt Badenhausen of Sportico wrote.
"In addition, he received $75 million worth of restricted stock units as part of the UA deal, which vest in 2029 and 2034—these units are not part of his current comp."
As for LeBron James, while Curry will be earning more than him, he remains the only active NBA player to become a billionaire. His current net worth is $1.2 billion, with his "most valuable asset" being his production and media company, SpringHill Company.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)
Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Sure enough, considering what Curry and James have done in their careers, it will be difficult for anyone to surpass them when it comes to earnings.
