Highest NBA career earnings of all-time

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16 February 2026 at 16:22

In today’s NBA, greatness isn’t just measured in championships and MVP trophies — it’s also reflected in career earnings that tell the story of longevity, dominance, and timing. The list of the highest NBA career earners of all time is more than a financial ranking; it’s a snapshot of an era where superstar impact and league revenue have grown side by side. As television deals expanded, the salary cap exploded, and max contracts reached historic heights, the league’s elite were positioned to benefit like never before.

At the very top sits LeBron James, whose career earnings surpass half a billion dollars — a staggering figure that mirrors his two decades of excellence. Close behind are generational talents like Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry, players who not only defined their era but helped reshape the modern game. From revolutionary shooting to unstoppable scoring versatility, their contracts reflect both production and influence.

What makes this list compelling is how it blends sustained superstardom with strategic career moves. Long-term extensions, supermax deals, and loyalty to franchises all play a role. These numbers represent more than paydays — they symbolize trust from organizations, global marketability, and consistent elite performance. In many ways, this ranking captures the business evolution of basketball just as much as it honors the players themselves.

1. LeBron James

Career Earnings: $581.3M

LeBron’s longevity and sustained dominance are simply unmatched. From his early days in Cleveland to championships in Miami, Cleveland again, and Los Angeles, he has maximized every contract with superstar-level performance. Even in his 20th-plus season range, he’s still producing at an elite level, proving that his earning power has mirrored his greatness on the court.

2. Kevin Durant

Career Earnings: $501.1M

Durant’s smooth scoring ability made him one of the most sought-after superstars of his era. His championships with Golden State, combined with MVP-level play throughout his career, positioned him for massive max contracts. Even after major injuries, his value never dipped, a testament to his pure offensive brilliance.

3. Stephen Curry

Career Earnings: $470.1M

Curry revolutionized basketball with his shooting range and off-ball movement. As the face of a dynasty in Golden State, he earned historic extensions that reflected both his impact and loyalty. His contracts symbolize how the modern NBA now prioritizes skill, spacing, and transformative talent.

4. James Harden

Career Earnings: $411.4M

Harden’s offensive peak in Houston was one of the most statistically explosive stretches in league history. His ability to control tempo, draw fouls, and score in isolation made him a perennial MVP candidate. Those dominant years translated into massive contracts that cemented his financial legacy in the league.

5. Chris Paul

Career Earnings: $408.1M

Paul has long been considered one of the greatest floor generals in NBA history. His leadership, mid-range mastery, and basketball IQ consistently elevated every team he joined. Even into his late 30s, teams valued his presence enough to keep him among the league’s highest earners.

6. Paul George

Career Earnings: $406.2M

George’s two-way versatility made him one of the most complete wings of his generation. Whether in Indiana, Oklahoma City, or Los Angeles, he has been a consistent All-Star presence. His max-level deals reflect the premium the NBA places on elite perimeter defenders who can also score at all three levels.

7. Kawhi Leonard

Career Earnings: $378.7M

Leonard built his career on quiet dominance and postseason excellence. From Finals MVP honors in San Antonio to delivering Toronto its first championship, his résumé speaks volumes. Even with load management and injuries, his championship pedigree secured him massive long-term deals.

8. Jimmy Butler

Career Earnings: $366.1M

Butler’s rise from late first-round pick to franchise leader is one of the league’s best development stories. His relentless competitiveness and playoff heroics elevated Miami into multiple deep postseason runs. Those performances solidified his reputation as a max-contract cornerstone.

9. Damian Lillard

Career Earnings: $365.3M

Lillard’s loyalty to Portland defined much of his career and led to record-setting extensions. Known for clutch shooting and fearless range, he became one of the league’s most respected leaders. His earning total reflects both individual brilliance and the financial power of long-term franchise commitment.

10. Anthony Davis

Career Earnings: $364.4M

Davis has consistently been one of the NBA’s most dominant two-way big men. His defensive versatility and inside scoring helped deliver a championship in Los Angeles. When healthy, he’s a franchise-altering force, and his contracts have reflected that elite impact.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the highest career earners in NBA history represent the intersection of talent, timing, and transformation within the league. Their earnings are a testament to sustained excellence and the NBA’s unprecedented financial growth. As the salary cap continues to rise, this list will evolve — but it will always be anchored by the legends who set the financial standard.