Steph Curry Dethrones LeBron as Top NBA Earner in 2025
In a historic financial shift, Steph Curry has overtaken LeBron James as the NBA’s highest-paid player in 2025. This milestone reflects not only Curry’s continued dominance on the court but also his massive impact off it, as his endorsement deals and business ventures have skyrocketed his total earnings to unprecedented heights
How Did Steph Curry Surpass LeBron James?
1. Record-Breaking Salary
- Curry’s 2025 NBA salary: $59.6 million, the highest in league history.
- LeBron James, while still earning an elite salary, will make $52.6 million with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025-26 season.
- Curry’s contract with the Golden State Warriors, valued at $215 million, cements his status as the league’s top earner
2. Unmatched Off-Court Earnings
- Endorsements and business ventures have pushed Curry’s total annual earnings to $156 million in 2025, according to Forbes.
- Major deals include Under Armour, Rakuten, Chase, and Subway, plus his own production company, Unanimous Media.
- Curry’s off-court income for 2025 is estimated at $100 million, far surpassing most of his peers
3. LeBron’s Enduring Legacy
- LeBron James remains a global icon, earning $128 million in 2025 ($48 million on-court, $80 million off-court).
- Despite being dethroned, LeBron’s business empire and endorsements (Nike, PepsiCo, and more) continue to generate massive revenue.
NBA’s Highest-Paid Players: 2025
| Rank | Player | Team | On-Court Earnings | Off-Court Earnings | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steph Curry | Golden State Warriors | $59.6M | $100M | $156M |
| 2 | LeBron James | Los Angeles Lakers | $52.6M | $80M | $128M |
| 3 | Kevin Durant | Phoenix Suns | $53.2M | $45M | $98.2M |
| 4 | Giannis Antetokounmpo | Milwaukee Bucks | $54.1M | $65M | $119.1M |
Note: Figures are rounded and may vary slightly by source.
The Business Behind Curry’s Earnings
- Under Armour Partnership: Curry’s lifetime deal is rumored to be worth over $1 billion, with a dedicated Curry Brand line.
- Unanimous Media: His production company creates films, documentaries, and TV series, expanding his influence beyond basketball.
- Investments: Curry has stakes in tech startups, sports drinks (Plezi Hydration), and fitness brands.
What This Means for the NBA
- Curry’s ascent illustrates the growing power of personal branding and business acumen among athletes.
- The NBA’s global reach and digital presence have made it possible for stars to earn as much—or more—off the court as on it.
- The league’s salary cap increases and lucrative endorsement opportunities are redefining what it means to be a superstar.
Conclusion
Steph Curry’s rise to the top of the NBA earnings chart in 2025 marks a new era for athlete wealth and influence. His combination of on-court excellence, business savvy, and cultural impact has set a new standard for what’s possible in professional sports. As the NBA continues to evolve, Curry’s story will inspire future generations of players to think big, both on and off the hardwood.