What NBA star is a billionaire?

Meet the NBA’s Billionaire Club

It’s rare for professional athletes to reach billionaire status, but in the world of the NBA, a select few have done more than dominate the court—they’ve built empires. As of 2026, only four former players have crossed the billion-dollar threshold: Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Magic Johnson, and Junior Bridgeman.

Michael Jordan was the first NBA player to become a billionaire, a milestone achieved through his legendary career and the global success of the Jordan Brand. His partnership with Nike turned sneakers into status symbols, proving that athletic legacy can evolve into long-term wealth.

Then there’s LeBron James, who’s redefined what it means to be a modern athlete. Beyond his on-court achievements, LeBron’s savvy investments—ranging from SpringHill Company to stakes in Liverpool FC and Blaze Pizza—have helped him build a diversified empire. He’s not just playing the game; he’s shaping the business around it.

Earvin “Magic” Johnson paved the way long before social media or athlete-led branding. After retiring, Magic turned his charisma into a business portfolio spanning movie theaters, Starbucks franchises, and ownership stakes in sports teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and the WNBA’s Sparks.

Somewhat lesser-known but equally impressive is Junior Bridgeman. While not a household name like Jordan or LeBron, Bridgeman built a fortune through smart investments, especially in fast food. He owns over 250 Wendy’s and KFC franchises, turning a modest NBA career into long-term financial dominance.

Together, these four show that greatness isn’t just measured in points or championships—it’s also in how they’ve played the game off the court. They’ve turned fame into lasting legacies, proving that the NBA’s influence extends far beyond basketball.