The billionaire basketball player who is currently active is LeBron James. He is notable for being the first active NBA player to achieve billionaire status.
While LeBron James is the contemporary figure, the first NBA player ever to become a billionaire was legendary athlete Michael Jordan, who reached this milestone after his retirement from the league.
LeBron James: The Active Billionaire
LeBron James, an NBA All-Star, solidified his financial legacy by becoming a billionaire in 2022. This achievement marked him as the first active player in NBA history to join the exclusive club of billionaires. As of September 2024, his net worth stands at an impressive $1.2 billion. His vast wealth has been accumulated through a combination of his lucrative NBA contracts, endorsements, and shrewd business investments.
Michael Jordan: The Pioneer Billionaire
Before LeBron James, the trailblazer in NBA wealth was Michael Jordan. Considered by many to be the greatest basketball player of all time, Jordan broke the billionaire barrier in 2014. Importantly, he achieved this milestone approximately 10 years after officially retiring from the NBA. His wealth largely stems from his groundbreaking Nike endorsement deal (Air Jordan brand), team ownership (Charlotte Hornets), and various business ventures.
Key Milestones for NBA Billionaires
Here's a comparison of the significant milestones for these two iconic basketball billionaires:
| Player | Billionaire Status Achieved | Active or Retired at Milestone | Notable Achievement | Net Worth (as of Sept 2024) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LeBron James | 2022 | Active Player | First active NBA player billionaire | $1.2 billion |
| Michael Jordan | 2014 | Retired Player | First NBA player billionaire overall | (Not specified in reference) |
These two athletes represent the pinnacle of financial success within the sport, demonstrating that a career in basketball, combined with astute business acumen, can lead to extraordinary wealth.
