Basketball has become a highly profitable sport, with the NBA leading the way. The league’s revenue for the 2021-22 season is around $10 billion, thanks to the increasing popularity of basketball and its players. Ticket sales and merchandise are thriving, and everyone wants to be part of the action.
The top earners in the NBA are all earning big money, with the elite making enormous amounts on multi-million dollar contracts that set them up for life.
But how much are we talking about?
This list of the 15 highest-paid players in the NBA for the 2022-23 season, according to Spotrac, provides insight. Prepare to be blown away!
(Please note: Figures shown in AUD are estimated from the exchange rate at close of trading on 4th July 2022.
15. Tobias Harris, Philadelphia 76ers
Salary: $55,320,583
Tobias Harris is renowned for having one of the strongest work ethics in the NBA.
After playing college basketball at the University of Tennessee, he was selected as the 19th overall pick by the Charlotte Bobcats (now the Charlotte Hornets) in the 2011 NBA Draft.
Throughout his career, Harris has showcased his scoring prowess and versatility on the court. He is known for his ability to score from various floor spots, whether through mid-range jumpers, attacking the basket, or knocking down three-pointers.
This ability has seen him play for multiple teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers.
14. Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat
Salary: $55,350,351
Jimmy Butler is one of the best defensive players in the NBA.
He was selected as the 30th overall pick by the Chicago Bulls in the 2011 NBA Draft after playing college basketball for Marquette University. It didn’t take long for him to establish himself as one of the premier two-way players in the league.
Known for his relentless work ethic, he quickly became a defensive stopper, earning multiple All-Defensive Team selections. Butler’s defensive prowess and ability to score efficiently and contribute in various ways led him to numerous NBA All-Star appearances.
Butler’s competitive nature and tenacious defence have earned him the reputation of being a player who thrives in pressure situations. He has shown the ability to elevate his game and make big plays when his team needs it the most.
Butler is also admired for his leadership qualities, setting high standards of intensity, leading by example and pushing his teammates to compete at their best. This leadership was evident during his
tenure with the Miami Heat, where he helped lead the team to the NBA Finals in 2020.
13. Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks
Salary: $55,783,965
After several standout performances for Texas A&M University, the Detroit Pistons selected Khris Middleton as the 39th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.
However, his breakout came after he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2013. Since then, he has developed into a critical player for the team and has been an integral part of their success. Middleton is known for his scoring ability, particularly his mid-range jumpers and three-point shooting. His shooting prowess and ability to create his own shot make him a reliable offensive weapon.
Additionally, Middleton has proven to be a valuable contributor on the defensive end. His length and basketball IQ allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. He often takes on the responsibility of protecting the opponent’s top perimeter player.
Middleton’s performances in crucial moments have earned him the reputation of being an exceptional clutch player. He has hit numerous game-winning shots and has stepped up in high-pressure situations. Middleton’s ability to deliver when it matters most has been vital to the success of the Bucks in the playoffs.
12. Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers
Salary: $55,831,658
Often referred to as ‘AD’, Anthony Davis is a dominant presence on both ends of the court.
He played college basketball at the University of Kentucky before being selected as the first overall pick by the New Orleans Hornets (now the New Orleans Pelicans) in the 2012 NBA Draft.
Boasting a unique combination of athleticism and skill, the 6 feet 10 inches tall Davis took little time to establish himself as one of the best power forwards/centres in the NBA. His defensive presence, mobility, and instincts make him a force to be reckoned with in the paint. He possesses exceptional shot-blocking abilities, often leading the league in blocks per game.
Offensively, Davis is a versatile scorer. He can score from anywhere on the court, utilising his shooting touch, post moves, and athleticism to put up impressive numbers consistently. Davis can dominate games with his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities.
During his tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans, he earned multiple NBA All-Star selections and was named to the All-NBA First Team. In 2020, he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he teamed up with LeBron James and helped lead the Lakers to an NBA championship in his first season with the team.
11. Rudy Gobert, Minnesota Timberwolves
Salary: $56,113,448
French-born Rudy Gobert began his career in France before being selected as the 27th overall pick by
the Denver Nuggets in the 2013 NBA Draft. He was then subsequently traded to the Utah Jazz.
A giant of a man, he stands at 7 feet 1 inch tall and has a remarkable 7 feet 9-inch wingspan. Since joining the league, Gobert has established himself as one of the most imposing defensive forces in the NBA. He has won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award multiple times, showcasing his ability to protect the rim, alter shots, and anchor the defence. His shot-blocking prowess has earned him the nickname ‘The Stifle Tower’.
However, Gobert’s defensive impact goes beyond shot-blocking, as he is an exceptional rebounder who consistently ranks among the league leaders in rebounds per game. His length and positioning allow him to secure rebounds in traffic and start fast breaks for his team.
Offensively, Gobert is known for his finishing ability around the rim, capitalising on lobs and putbacks. He has also developed his post-game and has become a reliable scorer in the paint.
10. Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors
Salary: $59,682,117
Klay Thompson is right up there as one of the best shooters in NBA history. He has a smooth shooting stroke and an incredible ability to get hot and score points quickly. Thompson’s sharpshooting, particularly from beyond the arc, has earned him the nickname ‘Splash Brother’ alongside his teammate Stephen Curry.
Thompson starred for Washington State University before being selected as the 11th overall pick by the Golden State Warriors in the 2011 NBA Draft.
He has been integral to the Warriors’ success, helping the team win multiple NBA championships. Additionally, he has earned All-Star selections and holds the NBA record for most points scored in a single quarter with 37.
As well as being a top offensive player, Thompson has a tenacious defensive game too. Often he guards the opponent’s top perimeter player, and there is no doubt his defensive prowess has helped the Warriors establish themselves as one of the top teams in the league during their championship runs.
T-7. Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers
Salary: $62,463,963
Kawhi Leonard is up there as one of the premier two-way players in the NBA.
Having played college basketball for San Diego State University, Leonard was the 15th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers. However, they traded him to the San Antonio Spurs on draft night.
At the Pacers, Leonard quickly established himself as a defensive stalwart. With his lockdown perimeter defence and strong hands for steals, he quickly became viewed as one of the best in the league.
Leonard’s offensive game also flourished, as he became a reliable scorer with his efficient shooting and ability to create his own shot.
Leonard’s breakout season came in 2014 when he won the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, helping lead the Spurs to their fifth championship. He continued his success and earned the NBA Finals MVP award again in 2019, this time with the Toronto Raptors, leading them to their first-ever title.
Leonard’s calm manner and ability to perform under pressure have earned him the nickname ‘The Claw’.
T-7. Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers
Salary: $62,463,963
Throughout his NBA career, Damian ‘Dame Time’ Lillard has consistently showcased his scoring prowess and ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Impressing with his exceptional scoring ability and leadership, Lillard played college basketball for Weber State University before being selected as the 6th overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA Draft.
Since joining the league, he has developed a smooth shooting stroke and deep shooting range. He also has an uncanny ability to take over games in critical moments, earning him a reputation as one of the league’s most clutch players.
Lillard has been named an NBA All-Star multiple times and has received All-NBA Team honours. He has led the Trail Blazers to numerous playoff appearances, further solidifying his status as the face of the franchise.
T-7. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Salary: $62,463,963
Giannis Antetokounmpo, often called the ‘Greek Freak’, is a Greek-Nigerian professional basketball player who has taken the NBA by storm with his incredible athleticism and versatility.
Antetokounmpo’s journey to basketball stardom is remarkable, as he grew up in a family of Nigerian immigrants in Greece and overcame various obstacles to become one of the most dominant players in the league.
Standing at 6 feet 11 inches tall, Antetokounmpo possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and skill. His athleticism allows him to excel in multiple positions, making him a nightmare for opposing teams to defend. Known for his incredible ability to drive to the basket, finish with powerful dunks, and play exceptional defence, he has won multiple NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Antetokounmpo’s breakout season came in 2016-2017 when he earned his first NBA All-Star selection and Most Improved Player award. He continued to elevate his game, becoming a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2019 and 2020. He led the Milwaukee Bucks to their first NBA championship in 50 years in 2021, capturing the NBA Finals MVP award in the process.
6. Paul George, Los Angeles Clippers
Salary: $62,464,074
Since first impressing at Fresno State University, Paul George has set for NBA stardom.
He was selected as the 10th overall pick by the Indiana Pacers in the 2010 NBA Draft and quickly established himself as one of the premier small forwards in the league.
He is known for his exceptional defensive abilities, athleticism, and scoring versatility. Possessing the power to impact the game on both ends of the court, he often guards the opposing team’s best player while contributing heavily on offence.
George gained widespread recognition during his tenure with the Indiana Pacers, where he became a multiple-time NBA All-Star and earned All-NBA Team honours. However, in 2014, he suffered a serious leg injury threatening his career. But thankfully, he made an impressive comeback and continued to showcase his skills with the Pacers.
After his time with the Pacers, George joined the Oklahoma City Thunder and then the Los Angeles Clippers. He has formed a formidable duo with Kawhi Leonard on the Clippers and helped lead the team to deep playoff runs. George has been lauded for his clutch performances and ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.
Off the court, George is involved in various charitable endeavours, including mental health advocacy. He has been open about his personal struggles with anxiety and has used his platform to raise awareness and support for mental health issues.
5. Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards
Salary: $63,620,497
Throughout his NBA career, Bradley Beal has established himself as one of the league’s premier shooting guards. With his smooth shooting stroke and offensive versatility, he has consistently been a top scorer and a key player for the Wizards. Beal possesses a deadly combination of deep-range shooting, athleticism, and the ability to create his own shot, making him a difficult player to guard.
Beal played college basketball for the University of Florida before being selected as the third overall pick by the Washington Wizards in the 2012 NBA Draft. His breakout season came in the 2016-2017 campaign when he averaged over 23 points per game, solidifying his status as an elite scorer. He continued to improve, consistently putting up impressive numbers and earning multiple All-Star selections.
Known for his work ethic and dedication to the game, Beal has become the face of the Washington Wizards franchise. Despite playing on a team that faced some challenges in terms of success, Beal has consistently showcased his skills and demands respect as one of the league’s most dynamic offensive talents.
4. Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
Salary: $64,856,172
Kevin Durant first came to prominence during his college career at the University of Texas, where he showcased his exceptional scoring ability and was named the consensus national player of the year in 2007.
He entered the NBA as the second overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, selected by the Seattle SuperSonics.
From the beginning, he proved to be a formidable offensive force. With his lanky 6 feet 10 inches frame, Durant possesses a rare combination of size, skill, and shooting accuracy. He is known for his silky-smooth shooting stroke, scoring prowess from anywhere on the court, and ability to score in various ways.
Durant spent eight seasons with the Thunder, leading them to the NBA Finals in 2012 and winning four scoring titles during his tenure. In 2016, he made a highly publicised move to the Golden State Warriors, forming a formidable ‘super team’ with fellow All-Stars Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. With the Warriors, Durant won two NBA championships in 2017 and 2018, earning NBA Finals MVP honours both times.
He earned numerous accolades, including multiple All-Star selections, All-NBA Team honours, and an NBA Most Valuable Player award in 2014. Unfortunately, he also faced significant injury setbacks, including a ruptured Achilles tendon that kept him out for the entire 2019-2020 season.
3. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
Salary: $65,378,232
There is no question that LeBron James is one of the greatest players to have ever graced a basketball court.
His journey to the NBA began in high school, where he gained national attention as a prodigious talent which garnered comparisons to NBA legends.
After graduating from high school, James was selected as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. He immediately made a significant impact, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in his debut season. James has played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers throughout his career, becoming a dominant force in the league.
James is known for his incredible athleticism, versatility, and basketball IQ. Standing 6 feet 9 inches tall and possessing a unique combination of size, strength, and agility, he can play multiple positions and excel in various roles on the court. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate the game has earned him numerous accolades, including four NBA championships and four NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards.
Arguably, LeBron James’ most significant impact on basketball extends far beyond his on-court accomplishments. He has redefined what it means to be an all-around player and has inspired a new generation of athletes with his skill, athleticism, and dedication.
2. Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Clippers
Salary: $69,183,312
Coming in at number 2 is Russell Westbrook.
After playing college basketball for the UCLA Bruins, he was selected by the Seattle SuperSonics (later became the Oklahoma City Thunder) as the 4th overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft.
Throughout his career, Westbrook has been a dynamic force on the court. Known for his relentless energy, speed, and powerful dunks, he became the face of the Thunder franchise alongside his teammate Kevin Durant. Westbrook’s breakout season came in 2014-2015 when Durant was injured, and he took on the role of the team’s leader. He became only the second player in NBA history to average a triple-double for a season, solidifying his place as one of the league’s most versatile and impactful players.
In 2017, Westbrook made headlines by joining the Houston Rockets after spending his entire career with the Thunder. He continued his impressive performances and recorded multiple seasons averaging triple-doubles, further cementing his status as one of the game’s most exceptional all-around players.
Westbrook’s playing style is characterised by his explosive athleticism, often resulting in aggressive drives to the basket. He also has a strong rebounding ability for a guard and a tenacious approach to defence. His competitive spirit and determination earned him numerous individual accolades, including multiple All-Star selections, All-NBA Team honours, and the NBA Most Valuable Player award in 2017.
1. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
Salary: $70,662,920
Stephen Curry is widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. Curry played college basketball for the Davidson Wildcats before being selected by the Golden State Warriors as the 7th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft.
In his early years with the Warriors, Curry faced some injury setbacks, but he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Known for his exceptional shooting range and incredible accuracy, Curry revolutionised the game with his long-range shooting abilities. He became the face of the Warriors and played a pivotal role in their transformation into a championship-winning team.
Curry showcased his skills in the 2009-2010 season and was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team. However, in the 2014-2015 season, he truly rose to superstardom, leading the Warriors to their first NBA championship in 40 years while earning the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award and becoming the first unanimous MVP in league history.
Curry continued to dominate the league, setting numerous records along the way. He became the first player in NBA history to make over 300 three-pointers in a single season and has shattered his record multiple times. Known for his electrifying performances and clutch shooting, Curry has captured the hearts of basketball fans worldwide.