LeBron James, the iconic NBA superstar who became the league’s first active billionaire player in June 2022, is on the verge of achieving yet another historic milestone as his career earnings are expected to surpass $530 million by the end of the 2024-2025 season.
James’ journey from a young prodigy at St. Vincent–St. Mary High School in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, to a billionaire athlete is a testament to his incredible talent and business acumen.
Since his NBA debut in 2003, James has solidified his status as one of the greatest basketball players in the history of the sport. He is often compared to legends like Michael Jordan in debates over the title of the greatest basketball player of all time.
According to a recent report by Forbes, James, who presently holds the title of the all-time leading scorer in NBA history and ranks fourth in career assists, is expected to achieve this career earnings milestone by the end of the 2024-2025 season.
Forbes’ recent publication of the NBA’s Highest-Paid Players for the 2023-2024 season places James at the top of the list. The NBA icon is projected to amass an astonishing $117.6 million in earnings this season.
His earnings for the 2023-2024 season are largely attributed to his $70 million in off-court income, which includes lucrative endorsement deals, licensing agreements, and earnings from his businesses. He is set to pocket an estimated $47.6 million from on-court earnings.
LeBron James hits record-breaking career earnings
James’ on-court earnings for the 2023–2024 season are predicted to boost his career earnings further, taking him from his current total of $432 million to an impressive $479.47 million. This further solidifies his position as the top earner in NBA history.
Notably, his financial growth hasn’t been limited to the basketball court. He has become one of the world’s richest Black individuals, thanks to his diversified investment portfolio and highly profitable endorsement deals.
He holds a stake in the sports nutrition firm Ladder and plays a key role at the SpringHill Company, a production, and development company specializing in television and entertainment content.
LeBron James’ strategic business moves in recent times
In a strategic business move last year, James sold a significant minority stake in SpringHill, valuing the company at approximately $725 million. This move significantly boosted his estimated net worth to $850 million.
Subsequently, he invested a portion of these proceeds into Tonal, a home gym company, and StatusPRO, a sports tech startup that specializes in virtual reality training products. Furthermore, he became a co-owner of A.C. Milan, an Italian football club.
James’ remarkable journey from Akron’s high school courts to the pinnacle of the NBA and the exclusive billionaire club is a testament to his unparalleled talent, relentless dedication, and savvy financial choices. As he edges closer to the $530-million career earnings milestone, he continues to redefine what’s possible for an athlete on and off the court.
