Did LeBron James Achieve Billionaire Status Before Michael Jordan? Here’s How!

LeBron James is continuing to dominate the NBA off the court and it seems like he won’t be stopping anytime soon. In fact, this has led him to achieve something that no other basketball player has. That’s right, not even Michael Jordan. He has become the first active NBA player to officially reach billionaire status.

But this hasn’t come as shock, given all the different factors that have contributed to this financial success, like lucrative endorsements, smart investments, and whatnot. Let’s not forget that the current Lakers‘ superstar is taking over Hollywood right now as well. Not only did ‘Space Jam: A New Legacy’ earn an estimated $31.7 billion in its first week, it also did better than Marvel Universe’s Black Widow.

A report revealed that since being drafted in 2003, “James has earned $330 million in playing salary—net of recent escrow deductions—and another $700 million off the court from endorsements, merchandise, licensing and his media business.”

“Current endorsement partners AT&T, Beats, Blaze Pizza, GMC, Nike, PepsiCo, Rimowa, and Walmart help James earn more than $100 million annually. The latest addition is Epic Games, where Fortnite players will have access to a pair of James-themed outfits or “skins.”

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LeBron James: A Billionaire before Michael Jordan?

When Kurt Badenhausen posted that Bron had become the first billionaire, fans’ first thought was, what about Jordan? Yes, MJ’s current net worth exceeds that of LeBron but that does not mean he did it first. Actually, Jordan only achieved this feat after he retired from the game. Kurt also posted that even if Jordan’s earnings were inflated, it still wouldn’t have made a difference.

Now that James has joined this elite club, it puts him next to other active billionaire athletes. From Tiger Woods, Floyd Mayweather, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and others. However, he will not be the only NBA player to do so.

Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry are also likely to join their colleague in this club. KD’s current career earnings stand at $580 million. But he is estimated to reach the billion mark, thanks to his 10 year deal with Nike. Along with his plethora of investments in different ventures.

Steph, who is earning $430 million as well on the court, is projected to eclipse the mark as well. So, LBJ might be the first, but he won’t be the last.

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