The 2021-2022 season is a low point for superstar LeBron James. He could not bring the Los Angeles Lakers to the Playoffs round after a series of systematic failures for the club. However, he still reached a new milestone for himself when he became a “billionaire”.
According to Forbes magazine, LeBron James’ total income in 2021 is estimated at about 121.2 million USD. This has helped LeBron James enter the “Billion Dollar BHX”, while still being in the group of the best basketball players in the world. Previously, only one other basketball player joined this list: Michael Jordan. However, he was only able to surpass the $1 billion mark thanks to investment and business activities after retirement.
LeBron James is the only basketball player to join the “Billion Dollar Ranking” while still playing
In the past 12 months, the star nicknamed “The King” was also the best-earning athlete in the world, bringing in 127 million USD from salary, bonuses and other activities. He surpassed football superstars like Lionel Messi (122 million USD), Cristiano Ronaldo (115 million USD) or Neymar (103 million USD) on the rankings provided by Sportico. If only considering basketball, LeBron James is far ahead of the other two stars, Stephen Curry (86.2 million USD) and Kevin Durant (85.9 million USD).
For LeBron James, this is a new milestone in his entire career at the top. Had an unhappy childhood when his mother Gloria gave birth to him when he was only 16 years old, did not know his father and lived a hard life in Arkon, Ohio. With his gifted physical condition and superior athleticism, LeBron James has received the attention of many scouts.
His life officially turned around when he was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2003 NBA Draft with the number 1 pick. Over 19 years, LeBron James brought home 4 championships, 4 Finals MVPs, 4 MVP titles and a series of other personal titles.
LeBron James has had an illustrious career, with many titles and smart investments off the field
Up to now, LeBron James has brought in $385 million in salary throughout his career, along with about $900 million from his own business projects. Some sources even confirmed that LeBron James has signed a lifetime agreement with Nike, the largest sportswear manufacturer in the world.
Value of assets that LeBron James owns
Not only is LeBron James good at making money, he also knows how to invest in business and real estate projects. This is not only to serve life, but also a guarantee for the 37-year-old star after retirement.
LeBron James is one of the shareholders of Fenway Sports Group, the company that owns Liverpool
According to Forbes, the estimated value of the assets that LeBron James owns is as follows:
– Shares in Spring Hill Company (300 million USD): A longtime company and the pride of LeBron James. Spring Hill Company is the sponsor of famous movies such as More Than A Game, Space Jam: A New Legacy… In 2021, LeBron James sold a number of shares worth 725 million USD and only kept more than 50% for yourself.
– Shares in Fenway Sports Group (90 million USD): Fully owns the famous English club, Liverpool is one of LeBron James’s most profitable investments. However, his dream is still to own his own NBA basketball team.
– Real estate (80 million USD): LeBron James owns 3 large real estate properties, including luxury mansions in Arkon (Ohio), Tony Brentwood (Los Angeles) and a large villa in Beverley Hills.
A pretty cute image of LeBron James serving Pizza to customers
– Shares in Blaze Pizza (30 million USD): Fans are familiar with the image of LeBron James standing behind the counter, serving Pizza upon request. From an investment of 1 million USD for a 10% stake, Blaze Pizza now owns more than 300 stores across the US, not including franchise brands.
– Cash and other investments (500 million USD).
