As the 2024/25 NBA season kicks off, the league is not only abuzz with exciting matchups and emerging talents, but also with massive contracts that define the financial landscape of the sport. The NBA has become synonymous with sky-high salaries, thanks to its global appeal, lucrative TV deals, and sponsorships. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top five highest-paid NBA players for the 2024/25 season, highlighting the contracts that are shaping the future of basketball.
1. Stephen Curry – $59.6 million
Still holding the crown as one of the league’s highest earners, Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors continues to cash in on his incredible career. Curry’s leadership, unmatched shooting ability, and consistency over the years have made him not just a basketball icon, but also a global brand.
Curry’s influence goes beyond the court. His partnership with brands like Under Armour, where he has his own signature shoe line, and other endorsements, significantly adds to his wealth. The $59.6 million salary is part of a four-year, $215 million contract extension he signed in 2021. This extension has kept the two-time MVP at the top of the NBA’s salary hierarchy, reflecting the Warriors’ confidence in his abilities as their franchise player.
2. Nikola Jokić – $57.3 million
Reigning MVP Nikola Jokić comes in as the second-highest-paid player for the 2024/25 season. The Serbian sensation has revolutionized the center position with his incredible passing, scoring, and rebounding skills. Leading the Denver Nuggets to an NBA championship in 2023, Jokić’s value is undeniable.
Jokić signed a five-year, $272 million supermax contract extension in the summer of 2022, which runs through 2028. This deal is the largest in NBA history to date. His playmaking and ability to control the game’s tempo make him one of the most unique players in the league, justifying his massive paycheck.
3. Joel Embiid – $55.3 million
The 2023/24 MVP Joel Embiid rounds out the top three highest earners for the 2024/25 season with an annual salary of $55.3 million. The Philadelphia 76ers’ big man has consistently been one of the best centers in the NBA, dominating the paint with his combination of size, skill, and shooting range.
Embiid’s contract, a four-year, $196 million supermax extension, was signed in 2021 and solidified his position as the cornerstone of the 76ers’ franchise. His ability to impact both ends of the floor, along with his leadership on a team constantly in playoff contention, makes Embiid worth every penny of his lucrative deal.
4. Giannis Antetokounmpo – $54.1 million
Another international superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo, earns a place among the top five highest-paid players with a salary of $54.1 million for the 2024/25 season. The Milwaukee Bucks’ forward, often referred to as the “Greek Freak,” has been a force of nature in the league since winning his first MVP award in 2019, followed by an NBA title in 2021.
Giannis signed a five-year, $228 million supermax extension in 2020, which was a key moment for the Bucks, ensuring they could retain their star player for the foreseeable future. Giannis’ relentless work ethic, athleticism, and ability to dominate in nearly every aspect of the game make him one of the most valuable assets in the NBA.
5. Luka Dončić – $52.6 million
Rounding out the top five is Luka Dončić, the Dallas Mavericks’ prodigy, with a salary of $52.6 million. The Slovenian guard has become one of the most exciting and skilled young players in the NBA, dazzling fans with his elite ball-handling, shooting, and court vision.
In 2021, Dončić signed a five-year, $207 million rookie supermax extension, securing his future in Dallas. Dončić’s influence on the game continues to grow, and his ability to perform in clutch moments has made him one of the brightest stars in the league. As the Mavericks build their team around him, Luka is expected to continue his ascent in the ranks of the NBA’s elite, both on the court and in terms of his salary.
The Evolution of NBA Contracts
The soaring salaries of the top players highlight the evolution of NBA contracts over the years. With media deals, the growth of the NBA’s global fan base, and increasing revenue from streaming and sponsorships, players are earning more than ever before. The salary cap has consistently risen, allowing teams to offer more lucrative contracts to retain their star players.
Another key factor behind these astronomical contracts is the introduction of the supermax contract. Designed to help teams retain their homegrown superstars, this contract structure allows franchises to offer higher salaries to players who meet specific performance criteria, such as winning MVP awards or making All-NBA teams.
The Impact of Endorsements
While these players earn jaw-dropping amounts from their NBA contracts, endorsements play an equally significant role in their overall income. Players like Stephen Curry and Giannis Antetokounmpo have deals with major brands such as Under Armour, Nike, and Gatorade, further boosting their earnings. These endorsement deals not only reward the players financially but also extend their influence beyond basketball, making them household names worldwide.
Conclusion
The NBA’s top earners for the 2024/25 season reflect the league’s growing financial power and the global appeal of its biggest stars. Stephen Curry, Nikola Jokić, Joel Embiid, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Dončić are not just basketball players; they are global icons, whose talents on the court are matched by their value off it. As the league continues to expand its reach, the salaries of its top players are expected to keep climbing, solidifying the NBA as one of the most lucrative sports leagues in the world.
