What's Happening?
Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors' star, has been named the highest-paid NBA player in 2025 by Forbes. Curry's estimated pretax earnings for the season are $159.6 million, which includes his playing
salary and income from endorsements and business ventures. LeBron James and Kevin Durant follow him on the list, with earnings of $137.6 million and $104.3 million, respectively. Curry's income is bolstered by his $59.6 million salary for the 2025-26 season and various business interests, including the Curry Brand with Under Armour and Unanimous Media. The top ten NBA earners are expected to collectively earn $902 million this season, marking a 15% increase from the previous year.
Why It's Important?
The substantial earnings of NBA players like Curry, James, and Durant underscore the lucrative nature of professional sports, driven by high salaries and endorsement deals. This trend reflects the growing commercial appeal of the NBA and its players, who leverage their on-court success into profitable business ventures. The increase in earnings highlights the expanding financial opportunities for athletes beyond their sports careers. This development may influence young athletes' career choices and aspirations, emphasizing the importance of brand building and entrepreneurship alongside athletic performance.