In 2025, basketball has grown beyond a sport; it’s a multi-billion-dollar global industry. Players are no longer just athletes; they are CEOs, investors, entertainers, and global icons. Today’s richest basketball players represent a blend of generational talent, strategic financial planning, and a deep understanding of branding in the digital era.
From active NBA stars to retired legends who continue to earn more off the court than they ever did on it, here's a detailed look at the top 10 wealthiest basketball players in 2025, based not only on their salaries but also on endorsement deals, business ventures, equity holdings, and cultural impact.
1. LeBron James - $1.2 Billion
At 40, LeBron James remains a dominant force both on and off the court. With a net worth crossing $1.2 billion, he’s the richest active basketball player in the world in 2025. His business empire spans sports, entertainment, food, and fashion. LeBron’s lifetime Nike deal is valued at over $1 billion, while his SpringHill Company has become a Hollywood powerhouse with projects across Netflix, HBO, and Apple TV+.
He also owns equity in Blaze Pizza, Fenway Sports Group, and multiple real estate ventures.
2. Michael Jordan - $1.1 Billion
Despite retiring over two decades ago, Michael Jordan continues to mint millions annually. His Jordan Brand under Nike remains a cultural cornerstone, generating over $5 billion in annual revenue. Jordan earns an estimated $150 million+ per year in royalties.
In 2023, MJ made headlines for selling his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets, reportedly for over $3 billion. His portfolio includes investments in NASCAR, restaurants, and luxury golf courses.
3. Kevin Durant - $500 Million
Kevin Durant’s wealth in 2025 stems from much more than his on-court dominance. His venture capital firm, Thirty Five Ventures, has invested in tech companies like Coinbase, Postmates, Robinhood, and Oura.
Durant also produces content through Boardroom, a media platform focused on sports business. His Nike lifetime deal and NBA salary continue to pour in.
4. Stephen Curry - $470 Million
Stephen Curry’s net worth is driven by a mix of NBA earnings, media ventures, and endorsements. His lifetime deal with Under Armour, inked in 2023, positioned him as the face of the brand and could reportedly pay out up to $1 billion over time. His signature shoe line, Curry Brand, competes directly with Nike’s Jordan line.
Curry co-founded Unanimous Media, which produces family-friendly content for Netflix and Amazon. He also invests in sports tech startups and golf apparel companies.
5. Shaquille O’Neal - $450 Million
Shaq’s post-retirement career has been as successful as his Hall of Fame run. In 2025, his $450 million net worth is rooted in shrewd investments and unmatched brand deals. Shaq owns or has owned franchise stakes in Papa John’s, Five Guys, Auntie Anne’s, and Krispy Kreme.
He has endorsed over 50 brands, from Icy Hot to The General Insurance. His appearances as an NBA analyst and TV personality keep him in the public eye.
6. Magic Johnson - $420 Million
Magic Johnson turned his NBA fame into a diversified business empire. In 2025, he holds minority ownership stakes in the Los Angeles Dodgers, LAFC, and Washington Commanders. Previously, Magic held over 100 Starbucks franchises, along with a movie theatre chain and real estate assets.
His investments focus on urban development and community upliftment.
7. Giannis Antetokounmpo - $270 Million
Giannis has transformed from an underdog to a global ambassador. His endorsement portfolio includes Nike, WhatsApp, Google, JBL, and PepsiCo. In 2024, he signed a 10-year, $200 million extension with Nike.
He invests in Nigerian and Greek tech startups, real estate, and health-food brands. He’s also an equity partner in Ready Nutrition.
8. James Harden - $260 Million
James Harden’s fortune is built on more than basketball. His long-term Adidas deal brings in $14 million annually. He owns J-Harden Wines and is active in restaurants, nightclubs, and tech startups.
He also co-owns a Houston MLS expansion bid and continues to expand his business interests.
9. Russell Westbrook - $250 Million
Russell Westbrook’s brand, Honour the Gift, is a leader in streetwear. His former Jordan Brand deal and various business ventures have grown his net worth steadily. He owns car dealerships, luxury real estate, and has invested in minority-led startups.
Westbrook is also deeply involved in design and entrepreneurship education.
10. Chris Paul - $240 Million
Chris Paul has blended his leadership on the court with smart financial strategy. He’s been a long-time partner with State Farm, Nike, and Panini. He co-founded PlayersTV and invested in plant-based food brands like Beyond Meat.
He remains an advocate for player rights and financial literacy among young athletes.
Top 10 Richest Basketball Players in 2025
| Rank | Player | Net Worth (2025) | Primary Income Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LeBron James | $1.2 Billion | endorsement deals, and business ventures, NBA Salary |
| 2 | Michael Jordan | $1.1 Billion | Jordan Brand, Hornets Sale, Endorsements |
| 3 | Kevin Durant | $500 Million | NBA contracts, endorsement deals, and business investments |
| 4 | Stephen Curry | $470 Million | NBA salary, endorsement deals, and business ventures |
| 5 | Shaquille O’Neal | $450 Million | Franchises, Endorsements, NBA Career |
| 6 | Magic Johnson | $420 Million | Sports Ownerships, Starbucks, Real Estate |
| 7 | Giannis Antetokounmpo | $270 Million | NBA salary, endorsements, and business ventures |
| 8 | James Harden | $260 Million | NBA salary and endorsement deals |
| 9 | Russell Westbrook | $250 Million | NBA salary, endorsement deals, and business ventures |
| 10 | Chris Paul | $240 Million | NBA salary, endorsement deals, and business ventures |
These ten athletes have built empires beyond the basketball court. From billion-dollar endorsements to startup investments, they represent a new era where talent meets vision. Their journey proves that in 2025, basketball isn’t just a sport, it’s a business opportunity of a lifetime.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Basketball Players in NBA History
About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I'm Akanksha Sinha, an expert in writing sports blogs, news, and various articles for entertainment and more. I bring a unique flair to my work, providing insightful perspectives on the world of sports.
My articles aim to inform and entertain, making me a go-to source for sports enthusiasts seeking a blend of information and enjoyment. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, I consistently deliver compelling narratives that resonate with a diverse audience.
