Basketball is a popular sport around the world. Of course, the NBA, or National Basketball Association, in the United States has millions of fans. But it turns out to be just as popular in Europe, where betting on the Euroleague attracts a lot of attention.

Basketball not only provides sporting legends, but also huge profits for basketball’s biggest stars. The earnings of top basketball players extend well beyond the courts. These players attract huge sponsorship contracts, run their own businesses and prop themselves up with very lucrative contracts.

So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at the lives of some of the world’s richest basketball players.

Michael Jordan – the Undisputed King of Finance

It will come as no surprise that at the top of this list is Michael Jordan. Michael Jordan, a basketball legend, has achieved success that goes far beyond the court, becoming a financial king. His Air Jordan brand, a highly profitable partnership with Nike, has become a huge player in the athletic footwear market and generates astronomical revenues. As a result, Jordan not only made a name for himself on the football field, but also became a serious player in the business world. The success of his brand and the enduring popularity of Air Jordan shoes have contributed significantly to his fortune.

In addition to footwear, Jordan owns the NBA club Charlotte Hornets, adding another element to his financial kingdom. The team’s value and profitability have increased under his stewardship. As you can see, he has not only made big money through his athletic talent, but also through his impressive business acumen.

LeBron James – All about Sponsorships

LeBron James, known as “The King” on the basketball court, has crowned himself as the king of sponsorships in the sports world. While his success on the court is unquestionable, huge sponsorship deals have made him a financial powerhouse. LeBron James’ partnership with Nike, especially the LeBron James line of basketball shoes, has contributed significantly to his wealth.

In addition to his partnership with Nike, LeBron James has amassed an impressive portfolio of sponsors such as Coca-Cola, Beats by Dre and Blaze Pizza. These partnerships, along with NBA contracts, have made James a true financial star. However, he is also a philanthropist. The LeBron James Family Foundation was created to affect social change, making him a basketball icon and a businessman with a sensitivity to social issues.

Kobe Bryant – Legacy of Genius

The late great Kobe Bryant, remembered as one of the greatest players in NBA history, left a lasting legacy both on and off the court. His investment skills and business ventures, such as his own production company, Granity Studios, and successful investments in technology companies, contributed to his financial success.

Shaquille O’Neal – The Mighty Businessman

Shaquille O’Neal, or simply Shaq, is known for his dominant presence on the basketball court. However, he is another player who has managed to transition into another area of business after his sports career. His numerous sponsorship deals, including partnerships with companies such as Pepsi and Reebok, and investments in real estate, technology and entertainment have all contributed to his bank balance. The “Shaq” brand is thriving and growing, making him not only a basketball legend, but also a true business player.

Kevin Durant – the Silicon Valley Man

Kevin Durant, an NBA champion with a high scoring rate, has entered the Silicon Valley technology world. His investments in companies including Postmates, Coinbase and Overtime add a technological flair to his portfolio. In addition to his on-court earnings and sponsorship deals, his investments have helped him become one of the richest players in basketball.

Summary

Basketball players are superstars, especially in the United States. Therefore, it is not surprising that the most famous players become the faces of many businesses which allows them to earn big money. In addition to the huge earnings from the NBA, companies are lining up to partner with them and capitalize on their star power.