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via Imago
Dec 27, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers center Mo Bamba (4) warms up prior to the game against the Golden State Warriors at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
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via Imago
Dec 27, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers center Mo Bamba (4) warms up prior to the game against the Golden State Warriors at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Ever wonder what it’s like to make life-changing money just for blocking shots and throwing down alley-oops? Well, Mo Bamba doesn’t have to wonder—he’s living it. The 7-footer, known for his shot-blocking and that viral ‘Sheck Wes’ anthem, has bounced around the NBA, but one thing has remained steady: his bank account is getting bigger. So, how much does the Utah Jazz big man actually make? Let’s break it down.
Mo Bamba isn’t exactly on a max contract, but he’s still raking in millions. After signing a one-year deal in 2024, he’s pocketing around $2.6 million this season with the Los Angeles Clippers. Not bad for a guy who plays limited minutes, right? That contract is only for one year, meaning Bamba will be a free agent. But let’s be real, when you’re a 7-footer who can shoot threes and swat shots, you’re going to find a way to stay in the league and cash those checks.
Now, here’s where things get really interesting—Mo Bamba’s career earnings might surprise you. Since being drafted 6th overall in 2018 by the Orlando Magic, Bamba has already earned over $36.4 million in NBA salary. His rookie deal alone was worth $24.1 million over four years. Then, he bagged a two-year, $20.6 million contract with the Magic in 2022, but only played one season before being traded to the Lakers, who later waived him. After bouncing around, he landed with the Philadelphia 76ers on a vet-minimum deal before signing with the Clippers.
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Now, in the grand scheme of NBA salaries, Bamba’s deal is solid, but it’s far from the league’s biggest. Superstars like Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo are making $40-50 million a year. Even some role players are making north of $20 million. But Bamba’s earnings still put him in the top 1% of athletes worldwide—not bad for someone who’s yet to fully break out.
Here’s where things get really interesting—Bamba’s future salary isn’t set in stone. In fact, his situation just took a big turn. The Utah Jazz waived Bamba just a day after trading for him, making room for rookie guard Jalen Hood-Schifino. That means Bamba is now on the hunt for a new team, and with the trade deadline chaos still unfolding, he may have to wait a bit before landing somewhere new.
What’s next for Mo Bamba’s bank account?
So what does this mean for his money? Well, his $5.1 million salary for this season is still locked in, but without a guaranteed contract for next year, his future earnings could take a hit. The good news? Teams always need size and shot-blocking, and Bamba—who averaged 4.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks in limited minutes with the Clippers—could be a valuable depth piece for a team lacking frontcourt help.
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If he signs somewhere soon, he could still secure another solid deal. But if teams pass on him, he might have to settle for a veteran minimum contract—a major pay cut from his previous deals. The NBA is all about “what have you done for me lately?” and right now, Bamba is at a crossroads. Will he find a new squad and keep cashing in, or will he have to take a step back financially? That’s what we’ll have to watch play out.
He’s also made money through endorsement deals, sneaker contracts, and other business ventures. While he’s not pulling in LeBron-level endorsement checks, he’s had some solid brand partnerships. Under Armour signed him to a multi-year deal in 2018, locking him in as part of their sneaker lineup. While the exact numbers aren’t public, these deals add to his growing bank account.
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And let’s talk about his smart money moves off the court—real estate. Back in 2018, when he was drafted by the Orlando Magic, he scooped up a penthouse in the city for $1.7 million. Fast forward to his trade from the Magic, and he put that same property on the market for $2.8 million—a move that could net him a hefty profit. Whether or not he’s flipped it yet, it’s clear Bamba is thinking long-term when it comes to his finances.
But that’s not all—Bamba has linked up with brands like Bose, Bamba Peanut Butter Puffs (yes, a snack that shares his name), and Käter Wingman bottled water. These deals aren’t just for fun; they’re adding to his growing bank account. While his endorsement earnings aren’t as flashy as the league’s biggest stars, they still pad his overall net worth in a big way.
But one thing’s for sure—whether it’s from basketball, endorsements, or smart money moves, Mo Bamba isn’t losing money anytime soon. The real question is, will he level up his game and his paycheck, or will he have to settle for less? That’s what we’ll have to watch play out.
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Is Mo Bamba's financial success a testament to smart moves or just NBA's inflated salaries?
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Is Mo Bamba's financial success a testament to smart moves or just NBA's inflated salaries?
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