NBA player contracts continue to capture the spotlight, and the 2024-25 season is no exception. As new agreements set unprecedented benchmarks, this year’s salary roster is causing quite a stir. Who are the highest earners? Let’s dive into the details and see which players are at the top of the financial leaderboard this season.
- Stephen Curry continues to top the NBA salary charts with $55.7 million.
- Joel Embiid, Kevin Durant, and Nikola Jokic follow closely, earning $51.4 million.
- The list features a mix of seasoned veterans like LeBron James and rising stars like Luka Doncic, reflecting the league’s diverse talent and earning power.
Overview of NBA’s Highest-Paid Players for 2024-25
The NBA’s top earners for the 2024-25 season highlight the league’s financial landscape, showcasing a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging stars.
The salaries reflect not only the players’ on-court abilities but also their marketability and influence off the court. Here’s a closer look at what sets these players apart:
1. Stephen Curry – Highest Paid NBA Player with $55.7 million
Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry leads the NBA salary charts, earning $55.7 million this season.
Curry’s consistent performance and his role in revolutionizing the game with his three-point shooting have cemented his status as one of the league’s top earners, making him the highest paid basketball player.
Known as the “Baby-Faced Assassin,” the influence of this highest-paid NBA player extends beyond the court with significant endorsement deals and a strong presence in media and business ventures.
His leadership has been instrumental in the Warriors’ multiple championships, and this highest NBA salary reflects his value both on and off the court.
2. Joel Embiid – $51.4 million
Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid is another prominent figure in the NBA, earning $51.4 million – he is the number two highest paid NBA player.
As the 2023 NBA MVP, Embiid’s dominant presence in the paint and scoring ability make him one of the league’s top talents.
Embiid’s charismatic personality and strong social media presence have also contributed to his high marketability.
His salary reflects his contributions to the 76ers and his potential to lead them deep into the playoffs.
3. Nikola Jokic – $51.4 million
Denver Nuggets’ center Nikola Jokic, a two-time MVP, shares the second spot with Durant.
Jokic’s all-around game and leadership have been pivotal for the Nuggets, making his salary a testament to his impact.
This highest-paid basketball player recently signed the richest contract in NBA history, underscoring his value to the Nuggets.
His unique skill set as a center who can pass, shoot, and rebound effectively has revolutionized the position, making him indispensable to his team’s success.
4. Kevin Durant – $51.1 million
Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns is one of the highest-paid NBA players at $51.1 million.
Durant’s move to the Suns has positioned him as a key player in their quest for a championship, reflecting his immense value on and off the court.
Durant is known for his scoring ability and versatility, which have made him one of the most formidable players in the league.
His salary is a testament to his impact on the game and his marketability, which includes numerous endorsement deals and investments.
5. Bradley Beal – $50.2 million
Bradley Beal, now with the Phoenix Suns, earns $50.2 million. Beal’s scoring prowess has been well-recognized throughout his career, and his 2023 move to the Suns marked a fresh start with significant expectations.
Known for his ability to score from anywhere on the court, Beal’s presence is expected to be a game-changer for the Suns’ title aspirations – we could even expect some amazing dunks.
His contract reflects his value as one of the premier shooting guards in the league, capable of consistently delivering high offensive output.
6. Kawhi Leonard – $49.3 million
Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers, known for his defensive prowess and clutch performances, shares the seventh spot.
Leonard’s ability to impact games on both ends of the floor, from shutting down top scorers to delivering critical baskets, makes him invaluable.
Despite injury concerns, Leonard remains one of the league’s most effective and respected players.
His salary reflects his ability to change the course of games, especially during the playoffs.
7. Devin Booker – $49.2 million
Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns commands a salary of $49.2 million, reflecting his rise as one of the NBA’s premier scorers and clutch performers.
As a key figure in the Suns’ resurgence, Booker’s ability to take over games and deliver under pressure has made him indispensable to the franchise.
Widely considered one of the league’s most dynamic young stars, Booker continues to build his legacy with every season. Beyond the court, he’s also established himself as a cultural icon with various endorsements and business ventures. His salary represents his growing influence both in the game and beyond.
8. Paul George – $49.2 million
Paul George, now playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, earns $49.2 million. George’s two-way skills, combining excellent defense with significant scoring ability, make him a cornerstone of the 76ers’ title aspirations.
His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions while also being a primary scoring option.
George’s leadership and performance in clutch situations underscore his importance to the team, justifying his substantial salary.
9. Karl-Anthony Towns – $49.2 million
Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves earns $49.2 million, reflecting his position as one of the NBA’s top big men.
Recognized for his ability to shoot from range and dominate inside, Towns has consistently been the franchise cornerstone for the Timberwolves.
His mix of offensive versatility and leadership makes him a critical piece for Minnesota’s long-term success. Off the court, Towns is also recognized for his philanthropic work and efforts to raise awareness on important social issues.
10. Jaylen Brown – $49.2 million
Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics also takes home $49.2 million, a salary that underlines his evolution into one of the NBA’s elite wing players.
Known for his scoring, defense, and leadership, Brown has become an indispensable part of Boston’s core and was a huge part of their title success.
Brown is also a respected figure off the court, using his platform to address social justice issues and promote education, furthering his impact beyond basketball.
11. Jimmy Butler – $48.7 million
Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler earns $48.7 million. Butler’s reputation for elevating his game in the playoffs and his leadership qualities are key to the Heat’s success.
Known as “Playoff Jimmy,” his ability to perform under pressure has been critical in the Heat’s deep playoff runs.
Butler’s all-around game includes scoring, defense, and playmaking, making him one of the league’s most versatile and valuable players.
His salary reflects his status as a top-tier player and a leader on and off the court.
12. Giannis Antetokounmpo – $48.7 million
Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo, a former MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, remains a top earner at $48.7 million.
Giannis’s all-around game, which encompasses scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defense, makes him indispensable to the Bucks.
His leadership and relentless work ethic have been crucial to Milwaukee’s success, including their 2021 NBA Championship.
Antetokounmpo’s salary is a testament to his significant contributions and his standing as one of the best players in the league.
13. LeBron James – $48.7 million
LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers also earns $48.7 million. His continued excellence and leadership at an advanced career stage underscore his enduring value to the Lakers and the NBA.
LeBron is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and his influence extends well beyond the court.
James remains a global icon with numerous business ventures, including entertainment and philanthropy.
His salary reflects his contributions to the sport and his status as a cultural figure.
14. Damian Lillard – $48.7 million
Damian Lillard, who joined the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023, also earns $48.7 million. Lillard’s is expected to significantly bolster the Bucks’ championship hopes this season, providing them with a dynamic scorer and leader.
Known for his deep shooting range and clutch performances, Lillard’s addition to the Bucks aims to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo’s inside game, creating a formidable duo.
His salary highlights his status as one of the elite guards in the NBA.
15. Rudy Gobert – $43.8 million
Minnesota Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert, known for his defensive dominance, earns $43.8 million. His presence in the paint is crucial for the Timberwolves’ defensive strategies.
Gobert, a multiple-time Defensive Player of the Year, is known for his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities, which anchor the Timberwolves’ defense.
His impact on the game is not always reflected in traditional statistics, but his ability to alter opponents’ shots and protect the rim is invaluable.
Gobert’s salary reflects his elite status as one of the best defensive players in the league.
16. Anthony Davis – $43.2 million
Los Angeles Lakers’ Anthony Davis earns $43.2 million. Davis’ impact on both ends of the court and his health will be pivotal for the Lakers’ season.
Known for his defensive versatility and scoring ability, Davis is a crucial player for the Lakers.
His ability to dominate the paint, protect the rim, and score from inside and outside makes him one of the league’s most complete players.
However, his health has been a concern, and the Lakers’ success often hinges on Davis staying injury-free.
His salary reflects his immense talent and potential to lead the Lakers to another championship.
17. Luka Doncic – $43.0 million
Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Doncic, one of the brightest young stars in the NBA, earns $43.0 million. Doncic’s playmaking and scoring abilities make him a franchise cornerstone.
His ability to control the game with his vision, passing, and scoring has made him one of the most exciting players to watch.
He has already achieved numerous accolades at a young age, including multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors.
Doncic’s salary reflects his potential to be one of the all-time greats in the league.
18. Zach LaVine – $43.0 million
Chicago Bulls’ Zach LaVine, a prolific scorer and key player for the Bulls, earns $43.0 million.
LaVine’s athleticism and scoring ability make him one of the premier shooting guards in the league.
He has improved his game significantly over the years, becoming an All-Star and a central figure in the Bulls’ offense.
LaVine’s salary reflects his role as a leader and his potential to take the Bulls deep into the playoffs.
19. Trae Young – $43.0 million
Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young, known for his scoring and playmaking, also earns $43.0 million. Young’s growth and leadership are critical for the Hawks’ success.
His ability to hit deep three-pointers and create plays for his teammates makes him a dynamic offensive threat.
Young has quickly become the face of the franchise and a fan favorite, leading the Hawks to significant playoff success in recent years. His salary underscores his importance to the team’s future.
20. Fred VanVleet – $42.8 million
Fred VanVleet, now with the Houston Rockets, earns $42.8 million. His leadership and scoring ability are expected to lead the Rockets’ rebuild.
VanVleet, who played a key role in the Toronto Raptors’ 2019 championship, brings his championship experience and veteran presence to a young Rockets team.
His ability to score, distribute the ball, and play tough defense makes him a valuable addition to the Rockets.
VanVleet’s salary reflects his importance to the team’s rebuilding efforts and his status as a top guard in the league.
Who Is the Highest-Paid NBA Player This Season?
So, who commands the highest salary in the NBA this season? Leading the charge is Stephen Curry, who earns an impressive $55.7 million!
The staggering salary figures of top NBA players underscore their immense value, reflecting their on-court prowess and off-court influence. These athletes’ earnings are a testament to their skill, commitment, and pivotal role in propelling their teams to success and boosting the league’s prominence.
As the NBA continues to expand and adapt, these contracts provide a clear insight into how talent, leadership, and marketability influence the economic landscape of professional basketball.
