Top 20 richest NBA players in 2023 and their net worths
In the world of professional basketball, a select few players have not only achieved unparalleled success on the court but have also amassed vast fortunes off it. These exceptional athletes have become household names and have garnered the attention of fans, sponsors, and media alike. As the game has grown in popularity and global reach, so too have the financial rewards for the elite performers. From lucrative endorsement deals to savvy business ventures, the richest NBA players have leveraged their talents and marketability to amass staggering fortunes. In this article, we delve into the lives and achievements of these basketball moguls, exploring their extraordinary wealth and the factors that have contributed to their financial success.
Here are the richest basketball players
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20. Tim Duncan – $130 million
Tim Duncan attended Wake Forest University, where he had an impressive collegiate career. After completing four years at Wake Forest, he entered the 1997 NBA Draft and was selected as the first overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey with the Spurs that would span 19 seasons.
Throughout his career, Duncan led the Spurs to five NBA championships (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014).
Off the court, Tim Duncan has maintained a relatively low-profile lifestyle. While precise figures for his net worth are not publicly disclosed, his successful basketball career, endorsement deals, and various business ventures have undoubtedly contributed to his wealth. As of 2023, his net worth is estimated to be around $130 million.
19. Gary Payton – $130 million
Payton played college basketball at Oregon State University before being selected as the second overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1990 NBA Draft. He quickly made an impact with his exceptional defensive skills and playmaking ability. Payton was known for his tenacious defense, earning the nickname “The Glove” for his ability to lock down opposing players.
In addition to his time with the SuperSonics, Payton also played for several other teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Miami Heat. He had a reputation for being a fierce competitor and a vocal leader on the court.
18. Dwight Howard – $140 million
Throughout his career, Howard has played for several teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, and Philadelphia 76ers. Although his role and impact have varied on different teams, he has consistently showcased his skills as a dominant rebounder and shot-blocker.
17. Dirk Nowitzki – $140 million
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Nowitzki began his professional career in Germany before being selected as the ninth overall pick by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1998 NBA Draft. However, he was immediately traded to the Dallas Mavericks, where he would spend his entire NBA career. Nowitzki quickly established himself as a dominant force on the court with his ability to score from the perimeter and post-up game.
He led the Mavericks to their first NBA championship in 2011, where he was also named the NBA Finals MVP. Nowitzki was a 14-time NBA All-Star and an NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2007. He is known for his trademark “fadeaway” shot, which became nearly unstoppable due to his height, shooting touch, and footwork.
Off the court, Nowitzki had endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike and Mercedes-Benz, among others. While precise figures for his net worth are not publicly disclosed, his financial success is estimated to be around $140 as of 2023.
16. Stephen Curry – $160 million
Throughout his career, Steph Curry has shattered records and set new benchmarks for shooting excellence. He is a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) (2015, 2016) and has led the league in three-pointers made multiple times. Curry’s ability to shoot from virtually anywhere on the court, often beyond the three-point line, has stretched defenses and changed the way the game is played.
Curry’s impact goes beyond his shooting prowess. He has led the Warriors to four NBA championships (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022) and has been instrumental in building a dynasty in Golden State. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates through his passing and court vision has made him a complete and well-rounded player.
Off the court, Stephen Curry has secured numerous endorsement deals with major brands such as Under Armour, Chase Bank, and JBL, among others. These endorsements, along with his basketball contracts, have contributed significantly to his wealth.
15. Chris Paul – $160 million
In terms of his financial success, Chris Paul has earned substantial contracts throughout his career. In addition to his basketball earnings, he has secured lucrative endorsement deals with major brands such as State Farm, Nike, and Beats by Dre. These endorsements, along with his on-court success, have contributed to his wealth.
While precise figures for Paul’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, his financial success is estimated to be in the range of $130 to $160 million as of 2023.
14. James Harden – $170 million
Off the court, James Harden has amassed considerable wealth through his NBA contracts and endorsement deals. Throughout his career, he has secured endorsements with major brands such as Adidas, Beats by Dre, and State Farm. These partnerships, along with his on-court success, have contributed to his financial success.
Although specific figures for James Harden’s net worth vary, estimates suggest that his wealth exceeds $170 million as of 2023.
13. Yao Ming – $175 million
Yao began his basketball career in China, playing for the Shanghai Sharks in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). His exceptional skills and towering presence quickly garnered attention, and he was selected as the first overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. Yao’s arrival in the NBA marked a significant milestone for both Chinese basketball and the league’s global expansion.
In terms of his wealth, Yao Ming’s net worth is estimated to be around $120 to $150 million as of 2021. His financial success stems from his basketball contracts, lucrative endorsement deals with global brands such as Nike, Coca-Cola, and Visa, and his extensive business ventures.
12. Luol Deng – $200 million
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Luol Deng, born on April 16, 1985, in Wau, Sudan (now South Sudan), is a retired professional basketball player who enjoyed a successful career in the NBA. Known for his versatility, defensive skills, and leadership, Deng was a respected figure both on and off the court.
Deng moved to the United Kingdom as a child and later attended Duke University, where he played college basketball. After one season at Duke, he entered the 2004 NBA Draft and was selected as the seventh overall pick by the Phoenix Suns. However, he was immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he would spend the majority of his NBA career.
In terms of his wealth, Deng earned significant contracts throughout his career. While specific figures for his net worth are not publicly disclosed, his financial success can be attributed to his basketball earnings and endorsement deals. Deng also had various business ventures and investments.
11. Russell Westbrook – $200 million
During his career, Westbrook has played for multiple teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, and Los Angeles Lakers. His fierce competitiveness and all-around skills have made him a valuable asset to each team he has played for.
In terms of his wealth, Russell Westbrook has earned significant contracts throughout his career. In addition to his basketball earnings, he has secured lucrative endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, Mountain Dew, and Samsung. These partnerships, along with his on-court success, have contributed to his financial success.
While precise figures for Westbrook’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, his wealth is estimated to be around $170 to $200 million as of 2023.
10. David Robinson – $200 million
Throughout his career, Robinson was a dominant force on both ends of the court. He was a ten-time NBA All-Star, a two-time NBA champion (1999, 2003), and a former NBA MVP (1995). Known for his versatility, Robinson was adept at scoring in the post, protecting the rim, and contributing as a playmaker. He was also recognized for his strong character and sportsmanship, earning him the NBA Sportsmanship Award multiple times.
Off the court, David Robinson has been involved in various business ventures that have contributed to his wealth. He has made investments in real estate, technology companies, and private equity. Robinson has also been active in philanthropy, particularly in education. He established the Carver Academy, a private school in San Antonio, Texas, aimed at providing quality education to underprivileged students.
9. Grant Hill – $250 million
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Grant Hill, born on October 5, 1972, in Dallas, Texas, is a former professional basketball player who had a successful career in the NBA. Despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career, Hill’s impact on the game and his versatility as a player were widely recognized.
Off the court, Grant Hill has ventured into various business and media endeavors. He has been involved in broadcasting, serving as a basketball analyst for major networks, including CBS and TNT. Hill has also invested in real estate and has engaged in philanthropy, supporting causes such as education and healthcare.
8. Kevin Durant – $300 million
Kevin Durant, born on September 29, 1988, in Washington, D.C., is a professional basketball player known for his incredible scoring ability and versatility on the court. Durant has established himself as one of the premier players in the NBA.
In 2016, Durant made a highly publicized move to the Golden State Warriors, joining a star-studded roster that included Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. This move paid off, as Durant won back-to-back NBA championships with the Warriors in 2017 and 2018. He was named the NBA Finals MVP both times.
Off the court, Kevin Durant has secured numerous endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, Beats by Dre, and American Family Insurance. These partnerships, along with his basketball contracts, have contributed significantly to his wealth.
7. Hakeem Olajuwon – $300 million
Hakeem Olajuwon, born on January 21, 1963, in Lagos, Nigeria, is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His remarkable skills, versatility, and dominance as a center have earned him a lasting legacy in the NBA.
Off the court, Hakeem Olajuwon has enjoyed a successful business career. He has been involved in real estate ventures, owning properties and developments both in the United States and internationally. Olajuwon has also been active in philanthropic endeavors, particularly in Nigeria, where he has established charitable foundations and initiatives.
6. Vinnie Johnson – $500 million
Vinnie Johnson, also known as “The Microwave,” had a successful career as a professional basketball player in the NBA, primarily known for his time with the Detroit Pistons.
Johnson’s scoring prowess and clutch performances were instrumental in the Pistons’ back-to-back NBA championships in 1989 and 1990. His ability to create his shot and deliver in crucial moments made him a valuable asset for the team.
Johnson’s entrepreneurial endeavors have undoubtedly contributed to his wealth, but specific figures are not publicly disclosed. However, his achievements on the basketball court and subsequent business success have likely established a solid financial foundation.
5. Shaquille O’Neal – $400 million
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Shaquille O’Neal, born on March 6, 1972, in Newark, New Jersey, is widely recognized as one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch (2.16 meters) tall and weighing over 300 pounds (136 kilograms), O’Neal possessed a rare combination of size, strength, and agility that made him a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court.
O’Neal’s career is highlighted by his four NBA championships, winning three consecutive titles with the Lakers from 2000 to 2002 alongside Kobe Bryant and another with the Miami Heat in 2006. He was also named the NBA Finals MVP three times and was a 15-time NBA All-Star. Known for his powerful dunks, dominant post play, and imposing presence on defense, O’Neal left an indelible mark on the game and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.
Off the court, Shaquille O’Neal has leveraged his fame and personality to establish a successful and diverse portfolio of business ventures. He has been involved in various endorsements, television appearances, and commercial partnerships. O’Neal’s larger-than-life personality has made him a popular figure in the entertainment industry, appearing in movies, television shows, and even pursuing a career as a rapper.
As a result of his on-court success, business ventures, and endorsements, Shaquille O’Neal has accumulated substantial wealth. Although precise figures vary, his net worth has been estimated to exceed $400 million.
4. Junior Bridgeman – $600 million
Junior Bridgeman, born on September 17, 1953, in East Chicago, Indiana, had a successful career in the NBA before transitioning into the business world and amassing considerable wealth.
During his 12-year NBA career, Bridgeman established himself as a reliable scoring option off the bench. Known for his smooth shooting stroke and versatility, he became an integral part of the Bucks’ roster.
After retiring from basketball in 1987, Junior Bridgeman embarked on a new career path in the business world. He focused his efforts on building a successful franchise of fast-food restaurants. Using his basketball earnings as capital, Bridgeman purchased several Wendy’s restaurant locations in the Midwest.
As a result of his entrepreneurial endeavors, Bridgeman’s wealth grew significantly. By 2023, his estimated net worth was reported to exceed $600 million, making him one of the wealthiest former NBA players.
3. Magic Johnson – $620 million
Magic Johnson, born on August 14, 1959, in Lansing, Michigan, is widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. His basketball career reached its zenith with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he played the majority of his professional years.
Johnson’s business ventures have been instrumental in shaping his wealth and post-retirement success. He transitioned into entrepreneurship and became a successful businessman, focusing primarily on the entertainment, hospitality, and sports industries. He founded Magic Johnson Enterprises, which has invested in various ventures, including movie theaters, restaurants, and real estate developments.
Moreover, Johnson has had a notable impact on the sports business landscape. He owned a stake in the Lakers and served as the team’s president of basketball operations for a brief period. He also co-owned the Los Angeles Dodgers, a Major League Baseball team, and has been involved in other sports-related ventures.
While precise figures for Magic Johnson’s net worth vary, estimates suggest that his wealth exceeds $600 million.
2. LeBron James – $1.2 billion
In addition to his on-court success, LeBron James has also been incredibly successful off the court, amassing significant wealth through various endeavors. His endorsement deals with major brands like Nike, Coca-Cola, and Beats by Dre have been highly lucrative, with estimated annual earnings surpassing $50 million from endorsements alone.
Furthermore, LeBron has demonstrated a shrewd business acumen, venturing into different ventures. He co-founded the media company SpringHill Entertainment, which has produced movies, documentaries, and television shows. He also owns a stake in Liverpool Football Club, a professional soccer team in England. These business ventures, combined with his substantial NBA contracts, have contributed to his estimated net worth, which exceeds $500 million
1. Michael Jordan – $2.0 billion
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Michael Jordan is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Born on February 17, 1963, in Brooklyn, New York, Jordan’s career in basketball began at the University of North Carolina, where he led the Tar Heels to a national championship in 1982.
During his illustrious career, Jordan won six NBA championships, all with the Chicago Bulls. He earned five regular-season MVP awards and was a 14-time NBA All-Star. Jordan’s scoring prowess was unparalleled, as he won the NBA scoring title ten times. His numerous game-winning shots and clutch performances earned him a reputation as one of the most clutch players in basketball history.
Off the court, Michael Jordan’s wealth has grown exponentially thanks to his business ventures and endorsements. Jordan’s partnership with Nike led to the creation of the iconic Air Jordan brand, which remains highly successful to this day. The brand’s popularity, fueled by the Air Jordan sneakers, has made Jordan a wealthy entrepreneur.
Jordan’s ownership in the Charlotte Hornets, an NBA franchise, further adds to his wealth and influence within the basketball world. His competitive nature and desire for success continue to drive him, both as a businessman and as a team owner.
As of 2023, Michael Jordan’s net worth is estimated to be over $2 billion, making him one of the wealthiest former athletes in the world. His combination of on-court greatness, business acumen, and enduring popularity has solidified his position as a cultural icon and a symbol of excellence in the world of sports.
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