
The world of professional sports is known for its sky-high salaries, and the NBA is no exception. Over the years, basketball has produced some of the wealthiest athletes in the world. From rookie contracts to supermax deals, NBA players have been signing massive contracts that redefine the term "big money." In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 biggest contracts in NBA history.
Russell Westbrook - $206.8 million
Russell Westbrook signed a five-year contract extension with the Oklahoma City Thunder in September 2017, worth a staggering $206.8 million. This deal made Westbrook the highest-paid player in NBA history at the time. The contract included an average annual salary of over $41 million, solidifying Westbrook's status as one of the league's elite players.
Stephen Curry - $201.2 million
Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors' superstar, signed a five-year, $201.2 million contract extension in July 2017. The deal ensured that Curry would be the highest-paid player in the league until Westbrook surpassed him a few months later. Curry's contract was a testament to his exceptional shooting skills and his impact on the game.
Chris Paul - $198.2 million
In July 2017, Chris Paul signed a four-year, $198.2 million contract extension with the Houston Rockets. This deal made him one of the highest-paid players in NBA history. Paul's exceptional playmaking abilities and leadership skills justified the massive contract, as the Rockets hoped he would help lead them to championship success.
James Harden - $196 million
James Harden, another member of the Houston Rockets, signed a four-year, $196 million contract extension in July 2017. The deal solidified Harden as one of the highest-paid players in NBA history. Known for his scoring prowess and unique playing style, Harden proved his worth and justified the massive investment by the Rockets.
John Wall - $169.3 million
In July 2017, John Wall signed a four-year, $169.3 million contract extension with the Washington Wizards. The deal made him one of the highest-paid players in the league. Wall's speed, agility, and playmaking abilities made him a valuable asset for the Wizards, leading to this significant contract.
Damian Lillard - $196 million
Damian Lillard, the Portland Trail Blazers' star point guard, signed a four-year, $196 million supermax extension in June 2019. The contract extension ensured that Lillard would remain with the Trail Blazers for the foreseeable future. Lillard's clutch performances and scoring ability made him a deserving recipient of this lucrative deal.
Giannis Antetokounmpo - $228.2 million
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks' reigning MVP, signed a five-year, $228.2 million supermax extension in December 2020. This historic contract made Antetokounmpo the highest-paid player in NBA history. The Bucks' decision to lock in their superstar was a testament to Giannis' dominant gameplay and his importance to the team's success.
Anthony Davis - $190 million
In December 2020, Anthony Davis signed a five-year, $190 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. The deal solidified Davis as a cornerstone of the Lakers' franchise, alongside LeBron James. Davis' versatility, defensive prowess, and scoring ability justified the massive investment the Lakers made in him.
LeBron James - $153.3 million
LeBron James, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, signed a four-year, $153.3 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers in July 2018. The deal made him one of the highest-paid players in the league. James' leadership, basketball IQ, and ability to dominate games justified the significant investment by the Lakers.
Blake Griffin - $171.2 million
Blake Griffin signed a five-year, $171.2 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Clippers in July 2017. The deal made Griffin one of the highest-paid players in the league at the time. Griffin's athleticism, dunking ability, and scoring prowess made him a valuable asset for the Clippers, leading to this massive contract.
The NBA has witnessed some jaw-dropping contracts over the years. From superstars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry to rising talents like Giannis Antetokounmpo, these players have secured their financial future through their exceptional skills and performances on the court. As the league continues to grow, it is very likely that we will witness even bigger contracts in the future, further solidifying the NBA's status as a lucrative profession for talented athletes.
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