Michael Jordan to LeBron James: Ranking the NBA’s all-time richest stars

The NBA is one of the most recognizable sports leagues on the planet—a global brand built on elite talent, iconic franchises, and a massive commercial ecosystem. With the league generating an estimated $10.58 billion in revenue last season, it continues to be a financial powerhouse for sponsors, investors, and athletes alike.

Given that success, it’s no surprise that the NBA has produced some of the wealthiest figures in sports history. Whether through record-breaking contracts, global endorsements, or smart business ventures, several NBA stars have built fortunes that extend far beyond their playing careers.

Below is a look at the five richest players ever to come out of the NBA, and how each one built their empire.

1. Michael Jordan – $3 Billion Net Worth

Regarded by many as the greatest basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan has long transcended sports. While he earned $90 million in NBA salary across 14 seasons with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards, the bulk of his wealth came from endorsements and investments.

Jordan partnered with global brands such as McDonald’s, Hanes, Gatorade, and Chevrolet. But nothing compares to his historic partnership with Nike. His Air Jordan line redefined athlete branding and generated extraordinary revenue—bringing Jordan an estimated $2.4 billion in pre-tax earnings from Nike.

His business empire continued to grow with investments in DraftKings, ownership in a NASCAR team, and most notably, the $3 billion sale of his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets, which significantly boosted his net worth. Jordan remains the wealthiest athlete in sports history.

2. LeBron James – $1 Billion Net Worth

The richest active player in the league today, LeBron James is one of only two NBA players to achieve billionaire status while still playing. Now in his 21st season, LeBron has earned $479 million in NBA salary, but his off-court ventures have truly elevated his financial legacy.

LeBron’s lifetime deal with Nike anchors his endorsement portfolio, while his business investments span multiple industries—fast food (Blaze Pizza), entertainment (SpringHill Company), and alcohol (Lobos 1707 tequila).

He has also invested in sports franchises, previously holding a stake in Liverpool FC via Fenway Sports Group. His diverse holdings and global marketability make him one of the most influential business athletes in the world.

3. Magic Johnson – $800 Million Net Worth

A five-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer, Magic Johnson has long been recognized not only for his on-court brilliance but for his entrepreneurial impact. Despite earning $39.3 million across 12 seasons—boosted by a unique long-term Lakers contract—Magic’s business acumen propelled him into the upper tier of sports wealth.

Through Magic Johnson Enterprises, now valued at over $1 billion, he expanded aggressively into real estate, entertainment, and sports ownership. His impressive portfolio includes stakes in:

• Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA)

• Los Angeles Football Club (MLS)

• LA Dodgers (MLB)

• Washington Commanders (NFL)

• Team Liquid (eSports)

He also holds a major interest in EquiTrust Life Insurance, further diversifying his financial empire.

4. Junior Bridgeman – $600+ Million Net Worth (Estimated)

One of the most surprising names on this list, Junior Bridgeman earned no more than $350,000 per season during his 12-year NBA career. But retirement marked the beginning of his rise as a business titan.

Bridgeman invested in fast-food franchises, initially purchasing a single Wendy’s store. That grew into a massive network of over 160 Wendy’s and multiple franchise brands, operated under Bridgeman Foods Inc.

He later sold the company and shifted to becoming a Coca-Cola bottler, eventually becoming CEO and president of Coca-Cola Heartland. His strategic investments and franchise empire established him as one of the wealthiest former NBA players.

5. Vinnie Johnson – $500 Million Net Worth

Rounding out the top five is Vinnie Johnson, a two-time NBA champion with the Detroit Pistons. Although he earned just over $3 million during his 14-season career, his post-basketball journey is a masterclass in entrepreneurship.

Johnson founded the Piston Group, an automotive supply company that has become a major partner for giants such as General Motors and Ford. Today, the company generates nearly $3 billion in annual revenue, and Johnson — as CEO and chairman — has built a personal net worth estimated at around $500 million.

The financial success of these NBA legends highlights how the league serves as a launching pad for long-term wealth—not merely through contracts but through entrepreneurship, branding, and strategic investments.

From Michael Jordan’s historic Nike empire to Junior Bridgeman’s fast-food dominance and Vinnie Johnson’s automotive powerhouse, these former players prove that greatness in the NBA doesn’t end at retirement.

Their stories set a blueprint for future athletes looking to turn basketball stardom into lifelong financial success.

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