LeBron James is the highest-earning player in the NBA for the seventh consecutive year.

While James does not have the highest on-court salary (he’s only held that distinction once, in the2016-2017 season), the Los Angeles Laker far outstrips his colleagues with endorsements deal that bolster his wealth.

Based on his current earnings, which are

expected to hit US$95.4 million this season – with US$64 million coming from

endorsements, memorabilia and media – James will become only the fifth athlete

to hit the US$1 billion mark in earnings while alive. The others? Some names

you may have heard before…Tiger Woods, Floyd Mayweather, Cristiano Ronaldo and

Lionel Messi.

Of that notable $1 billion haul, US$700

million would have been made off the court.

Runner-up to James on the NBA earnings

list is Stephen Curry, who made US$74.4 million including $40 million off the

court. The Golden States Warriors player is back after missing much of last

season due to injury.

The top 10 is completed by Kevin Durant ($65.2

million), Russell Westbrook ($58.1 million), James Harden ($50 million),

Giannis Antetokounmpo ($49 million), Klay Thompson ($43.3 million), Kyrie

Irving ($43 million), Chris Paul ($40.1 million) and Damian Lillard ($39

million).