How did LeBron James become the first active NBA billionaire? The Lakers and Space Jam star made it with a little help from Adele’s boyfriend Rich Paul … and a lifetime deal with Nike
- Basketball legend Michael Jordan was the first sports star to make 10 figures, but made most of it since retiring, while golf’s Tiger Woods is the only other billionaire athlete
- Only Lionel Messi made more money last year, but James has invested wisely with three houses and stakes in Beats by Dre and Fenway Sports Group, who own Liverpool FC
He’s considered one of the best NBA players of all time, up there with fellow billionaire basketball legend Michael Jordan, but LeBron James is the first star in the sport to have a net worth of a billion dollars or more before he’s even retired.
In 2014, James told GQ, “If it happens. It’s my biggest milestone. Obviously I want to maximise my business. And if I happen to get it, if I happen to be a billion-dollar athlete, ho. Hip hip hooray!”
The father-of-three can now go ahead and cheer. His history-making feat also means the future looks bright for his eldest son Bronny James, 17, who could even be drafted into the NBA before his dad retires.
But just how did James make that billion?
He’s got Adele’s boyfriend to thank
The athlete, 37, attended the wedding of fellow basketball pro Kevin Love in June. There, he and his wife of nine years, Savannah James, posed with British singer Adele and her boyfriend – and James’ agent – Rich Paul.
The Rolling in the Deep hitmaker has been seen attending LA Lakers games with Paul, who started Klutch Sports Group in 2012. The services of an agent are vital in securing the best contract when it comes to maximising both on-court action and lucrative endorsement deals that keep the money rolling in when you are off-court or in retirement.