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The NBA is a creative environment and highly competitive for its athletes. Top players earn substantial salaries and endorsement deals in the NBA. The NBA stands for National Basketball Association (NBA). The highest paid players in the NBA are a mix of up-and-coming talent and established legends, all with multi-million-dollar contracts. These players not only excel on the court, but are also successful off the court with endorsement deals. It makes them some of the most recognizable athletes and financially successful in the world.
The top 10 highest paid players in NBA 2023 including their total earnings, are below:
| Rank | Player | Team | Salary | Endorsements | Total Earnings |
| 1 | LeBron James | Los Angeles Lakers | $47.6M | $80M | $127.6M |
| 2 | Stephen Curry | Golden State Warriors | $51.9M | $50M | $101.9M |
| 3 | Giannis Antetokounmpo | Milwaukee Bucks | $45.6M | $45M | $90.6M |
| 4 | Kevin Durant | Phoenix Suns | $46.4M | $42M | $88.4M |
| 5 | Klay Thompson | Golden State Warriors | $43.2M | $21M | $64.2M |
| 6 | Damian Lillard | Milwaukee Bucks | $45.6M | $17M | $62.6M |
| 7 | Joel Embiid | Philadelphia 76ers | $47.6M | $9M | $56.6M |
| 8 | James Harden | Philadelphia 76ers | $35.6M | $20M | $55.6M |
| 9 | Nikola Jokic | Denver Nuggets | $47.6M | $7M | $54.6M |
| 10 | Paul George | Los Angeles Clippers | $45.6M | $8.5M | $54.1M |
Full article of top 10 highest paid players in NBA 2023 is below:
1. LeBron James ($47.6 Million)
LeBron James was born on December 30, 1984 in Akron, Ohio. He is a basketball icon and one of the greatest players in the history of the NBA. Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is well on his way to becoming the highest paid player in the NBA. He is expected to earn 127.6 million dollars for the 2023-24 season. This impressive sum includes an additional 80 million dollars from advertising revenue on top of his 47.6 million dollar salary. He is known for his exceptional athleticism, basketball IQ and versatility. LeBron James has played for the Miami Heat, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers. He has had an impressive career with All-Star selections, MVP honors and multiple National Basketball Association (NBA) championships. LeBron is active in community involvement, business, and philanthropy, using his platform to address social issues. He offers resources and educational support to at-risk children.
2. Stephen Curry ($51.9 Million)
Stephen Curry, born March 14, 1988 in Akron, Ohio. He is a professional basketball player who has revolutionized the game with his exceptional shooting ability. His annual salary of 51.9 million dollars reflects his contribution and remarkable skills to the team’s success. Stephen Curry is estimated to earn 101.9 million dollars, with 50 million dollars coming from various endorsement deals. Curry, who plays for the Golden State Warriors in the NBA, has led his team to several championships. He won several NBA MVP Awards, including numerous awards. His ability to change the momentum of the game and long-range shooting accuracy have made him a defining figure in modern basketball. Curry involves himself in philanthropy and earns recognition for his positive influence both as a role model and an athlete.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo ($45.6 Million)
Giannis Antetokounmpo was born on 6 December 1994 in Athens, Greece. He is a dominant force in the NBA. Commonly known as the “Greek Freak”,” Giannis plays for the Milwaukee Bucks. He has versatility, remarkable athleticism and impressive skills. His annual salary is 45.6 million dollars. This makes him one of the highest earning players in the league. Giannis was named NBA MVP multiple times and led the Bucks to the 2021 NBA Championship, where they named Giannis MVP of the NBA finals. He is known for his ability to impact the game both defensive and offensive. He has become one of the league’s brightest stars. His journey from a relatively unknown player in Greece to an NBA superstar is a testament to his hard work and talent.
4. Kevin Durant ($46.4 Million)
Kevin Durant, born September 29, 1988, is a successful professional basketball player from Washington, D.C. His versatility, size, and scoring ability are well-known. Durant has played for several NBA teams, including the Brooklyn Nets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors and Seattle Supersonics. His annual salary of 46.4 million dollars reflects his contribution and remarkable skills to the team’s success. Durant is a two-time MVP of the NBA Finals and regularly ranks among the league’s top scorers. His remarkable career includes NBA Finals MVP honors and multiple NBA championships. His deadly accurate jump shots, including offensive skills and ball-handling abilities, have earned him widespread recognition. Durant has involved himself in various business endeavors and philanthropy.
5. Klay Thompson ($43.6 Million)
Klay Thompson, born February 8, 1990. He is known for his defensive prowess and sharp shooting ability as a professional basketball player. His 43.6 million dollar annual salary is a testament to his impact and exceptional skills in the league. He is a key member of the Golden State Warriors in the NBA. Thompson was instrumental in the team’s success and contributed to several championships. He is often regarded as one of the best “two-way” players in the league, famous for his record-breaking three-point shots. He excels in his ability to impact the game both defensive and offensive. Klay’s work ethic, ability to deliver at crucial moments and calm demeanor have made him a fan favorite. Injuries may have put him out of action temporarily, but his influence on the game remains strong.
6. Damian Lillard ($45.6 Million)
He is an accurate point guard and dynamic guard in the NBA known for his scoring ability and leadership. He earns an annual salary of 45.6 million dollars with the Milwaukee Bucks. Lillard played a vital role in his career with the Portland Trail Blazers, having been voted an NBA All-Star multiple times. He often hits his precise three-point shot at crucial moments, which makes him famous. People nicknamed him “The Time” because he goes the extra mile in pressure situations. Lillard’s commitment to his team, playmaking abilities and, combined with his scoring, has made him one of the league’s standout players. His involvement in music and philanthropy emphasizes his versatility beyond basketball.
7. Joel Embiid ($47.6 million)
Joel Embiid, born on March 16, 1994 in Yaoundé, Cameroon. He is a dominant center in the NBA, known for his skills and an imposing presence. Playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, Embiid has established himself as one of the best big men in the league. He has a unique combination of agility, basketball IQ and strength. His annual salary of $47.6 million is a testament to his influence and exceptional skills in the league. Embiid, a multiple-time NBA All-Star, has garnered widespread recognition for his rebounding, shot-blocking abilities, and scoring. He is known for his footwork, versatility to shoot, and agility from long range, which makes him a challenge for any opponent. His social media presence and charismatic personality contribute to his popularity in the basketball community.
8. James Harden ($35.6 Million)
James Harden, born on August 26, 1989. He is an elite basketball player who is known for his unique style and scoring prowess in play. James Harden’s annual salary with the Philadelphia 76ers is 35.6 million dollars. Harden has proven his exceptional skills as a point guard and shooting guard in the NBA. He has played for the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder and the Brooklyn Nets, among others. Harden is a former NBA Most Valuable Player and has led the league in scoring multiple times. His ability to drive to the basket with finesse and his offensive repertoire includes a lethal step-back three-point shot. Harden’s philanthropic and social commitment is well-known.
9. Nikola Jokic ($47.6 million)
Nikola Jokic, born on February 19, 1995. He is a unique player and a highly skilled player in the NBA. Nikola Jokic’s annual salary with the Denver Nuggets is 47.6 million dollars. As a center for the Denver Nuggets, Jokic has redefined the position with his exceptional passing, scoring ability and basketball IQ. Nikola Jokic plays unselfishly with volatility. His salary reflects both its central role in the Nuggets’ success and excellence on the court, which includes long playoff runs. The NBA named him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) since Shaquille O’Neal in 2000. Jokic’s contribution to various aspects and ability to orchestrate plays of the game has made him a standout in the league. His financial success also underscores the increasing marketability and recognition of international players in the NBA. His down-to-earth personality contributes to his popularity with fans.
10. Paul George ($45.6 million)
Paul George, born on May 2, 1990. He is a versatile and experienced basketball player in the NBA. He is a versatile and experienced basketball player in the NBA. George, a forward player with the Los Angeles Clippers, earns recognition for his defensive prowess, overall athleticism, and scoring ability. A multiple-time NBA All-Star, George has played a key role for several teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. He has a considerable annual income of 45.6 million dollars. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the court and smooth shots have made him a respected figure in the league. George actively participates in community service and philanthropy initiatives.
Conclusion
The highest paid players in the NBA are subject to change due to trade, endorsements, and contract negotiations. In the past, players like Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and LeBron James have commanded endorsement deals and sizable salaries. They have consistently been among the highest paid players in the NBA.
