LeBron James Officially Becomes Billionaire, First Active Player To Do So

Lakers power forward LeBron James (Photo: Getty)

Los Angeles Laker superstar LeBron James may not be participating in the NBA Finals this year but he is still collecting accolades. The four-time NBA Champion has an evaluated net worth of one billion dollars.

According to Forbes, James has been one of the top-earning athletes in the world over the last few years. His $121.1 million earned in the last year was second only to Lionel Messi. This was based on his $44.5 million salaries and money earned with off-court brand deals, endorsements, as well as James’ other ventures. Here’s where else James makes his earnings.

Throughout his NBA career, the superstar has made a lot of money with his contracts. with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angles Lakers with his estimated earnings to be valued at north of $385 million.

James recently starred in the modern version of Space Jam bringing home a good amount from the box office after grossing $163 million worldwide. His production company SpringHill recently sold a minority stake at a $725 million valuation. The company also produces the hit interview show The Shop.

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James also has made about $90 million from Fenway Sports group. He gained a 1% percent ownership in the group after exchanging his minority ownership of Liverpool FC. Fenway Sports Group owns Liverpool, Fenway Park, the Boston Red Sox, and just purchased the Pittsburgh Penguins.

His real estate holding is also estimated to be about $80 million in total value. The Akron, Ohio native purchased a $10 million mansion in the Akron area, plus two homes in Los Angeles for about $59.75 million.

Investments within the food and beverage industry have also Brough James a good amount of cash. His 10% ownership stake in Blaze Pizza which he bought in 2012 for less than $1 million is now valued at $30 million.

With this milestone, James has become the first active NBA player to be worth $1 billion. Only two other former NBA players have reached the milestone, Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan.