Yvette Prieto to La La Anthony: Millionaire NBA Wives and Their Business Empires

With multi-million dollar contracts and endorsement deals, the NBA athletes live a life most can only dream of. But here’s the twist: their success doesn’t stop with them. While players rake in the cash, their partners aren’t just sitting on the sidelines. Many of them are carving out empires of their own, proving that power couples really are a thing.

From entrepreneurs to philanthropists, these women are building brands, changing industries, and breaking barriers. And they’re not just leaning on their partner’s fame—they’re turning their platforms into thriving ventures. So, let’s dive into the world of five such women who are redefining what it means to be an NBA spouse.

Cookie Johnson

“The reason I live today, and the reason I work as hard today, is for my wife and my family,” 5x NBA champion Magic Johnson once shared. But Cookie isn’t just Magic’s muse—she’s a force of nature in her own right. As an author, designer, and passionate advocate for AIDS awareness and LGBTQIA+ rights, Cookie uses her voice to educate and inspire. With a reported net worth of $150 million, she’s proof that there’s no limit to what you can achieve.

Back in 2009, Cookie spotted something missing in the fashion world: stylish jeans that actually fit real women. So, she did what any visionary would—she created CJ by Cookie Johnson, a premium denim line that offered both comfort and style.

It wasn’t just about selling jeans; it was about solving a problem. Women quickly flocked to the brand, drawn by its flattering fits and quality designs. For Cookie, it wasn’t just business—it was a mission.

Yvette Prieto

Then comes Yvette Prieto, the stunning Cuban-American model who caught the eye of Chicago Bulls icon Michael Jordan. Married since April 27, 2013, the 46-year-old mother of twin daughters, Victoria and Ysabel, stepped away from the runway after tying the knot. Known for her striking looks and impeccable style, Prieto transitioned from a thriving modeling career to becoming a key figure in the Jordan family’s legacy.

What’s even more impressive is her financial journey. While her association with Jordan may have bolstered her profile, her achievements are entirely her own.

With a net worth of $50 million, Prieto has proven herself as much more than just MJ’s wife. As a former model, filmmaker, and actress, she built her career on talent and determination. However, she seems to have stepped back from acting and modeling for now and focused on her family.

Gabrielle Union

Next up is Gabrielle Union, the powerhouse partner of Dwyane Wade. With a net worth of $40 million, Gabrielle first caught the world’s attention through her acting chops, landing lead roles in fan favorites like Bring It On and Bad Boys II. But her talents don’t stop there.

She’s taken on roles behind the camera too, as a producer and executive producer, adding depth to her already impressive portfolio. According to The Numbers, she’s appeared in over 20 movies—balancing lead and supporting roles with ease.

What sets Gabrielle apart, though, is her dedication to using her platform for good. A fierce advocate for women’s rights and community issues, she’s not afraid to speak out.

She even penned a memoir, We’re Going to Need More Wine, where she shared personal insights into her life and career. Whether as a model, author, or activist, Gabrielle continues to inspire, showing that success isn’t just about money—it’s about making a difference.

For the next two, we have former NBA wives who have since moved on from their basketball playing husbands.

Shaunie Henderson

Shaunie Henderson, the ex-wife of Shaquille O’Neal, is known for her entrepreneurial drive. She has built a thriving business empire, even while navigating the challenges of divorce and co-parenting. As she detailed in her book Undefeated, her journey began in entertainment, starting as a film marketer for Fox Entertainment.

But her ambitions didn’t stop there—she launched her production company, Amirah Inc., in 2004, naming it after her eldest daughter. With hit series like Basketball Wives LA, Basketball Wives Miami, and Shaunie’s HomeCourt, Shaunie has become a media mogul in her own right. Today, with a net worth of $35 million, she’s a shining example of resilience and innovation.

La La Anthony

While she is not an NBA wife anymore, let’s dive into La La Anthony’s story. Known for wearing many hats, La La is a media personality, entrepreneur, and actress who once shared her life with former NBA star Carmelo Anthony. Despite life’s ups and downs, she’s carved out a name for herself as a powerhouse in Hollywood.

From her early days as a VJ to her current role as a celebrated actress, she’s lived a life defined by resilience and reinvention. And here’s the kicker: La La’s success doesn’t just come from her association with Melo.

Long before her marriage, her MTV stint set her on a path to stardom. Today, the “Power” actress owns a jaw-dropping $30 million net worth. With investments and roles in hit shows, she’s proved she’s far more than just a “basketball wife.”