LeBron James Makes NBA History by Reaching the Billionaire Status
LeBron James has become the first active player in NBA history with a net worth of US$1 billion.
NBA star LeBron James is one of the most popular sports celebrities globally. The four-time NBA champion has added another achievement to his list of achievements. This time, it’s a new title that many dream of and crave- billionaire. According to Forbes, the two-time Olympic gold medallist is now worth US$ 1 billion.
LeBron James is now a billionaire.
James is also the first active NBA player to have achieved the billionaire status. He has made history! The four-time NBA MVP is second on the league’s all-time scoring list and has played in the league since the year 2003. Interestingly, all his fortune is not because of James’ ability on the field. He is also a savvy investor with considerable off-court earnings.
Another sports celebrity who reached the billionaire status is Michael Jordan. He reached this status 11 years post his retirement. Forbes estimates his net worth to be US$ 1.7 billion. James has been doing very well lately. Only last year, he earned US$ 121.2 million. About US$ 400 million was his salary for playing with LA Lakers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat.
His off-court earnings stand out. It is estimated that he earned over US$ 900 million from endorsements and business investments. A single mother raised James in Akron, Ohio. After gaining wealth, he gave back to his hometown by opening a school and a community centre that helps children and families.
In an interview in 2014, James talked about becoming a billionaire. He said, “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! Oh my God, I’m gonna be excited.”
James’ businesses and investments include the Spring Hill Company, a business group including Uninterrupted and SpringHill Entertainment. He also owns Fenway Sports Group and Blaze Pizza, which is a casual dining restaurant chain. Prominent among his investments is a hefty US$ 80 million real estate portfolio. It includes a Beverley Hills compound he purchased just last year for US$ 36.8 million.
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