The most profitable shoe deals in the NBA, in total, generate billions of dollars for the sneaker industry. And yet, the most profitable shoe deal on this list goes to a man who hasn’t stepped on the basketball court in more than two decades.

“Wholesale revenue at Nike’s Jordan Brand subsidiary hit $3.14 billion in the fiscal year ending May 2019, up 10% from 2018,” reports Forbes, who compiled the initial list of the most profitable shoe deals in the NBA today. “MJ’s annual take is an estimated $130 million, four times more than that of James, the No. 2 earner, with $32 million. Arguably, 16 years after he last laced up his own high tops on the court, more Jordan-branded shoes and apparel are being sold than the signature lines of every other current NBA player. Combined.”

The business of sneakers is a profitable one and one that has made millions of dollars for basketball players that have been lucky enough to get into it. In fact, according to Forbes, the vast majority of NBA players’ income off the court comes in the form of shoe deals. Giannis Antetokounmpo, for example, pulled down $10 million with his Nike deal — the same amount that Damian Lillard pulled down with his adidas deal. Even Klay Thompson’s deal with Anta gives him a $9 million paycheck.

But these 11 players’ deals are leaps and bounds above the rest.

Let’s take a look at the best of the best.

Editorial note: This piece was originally published on November 15, 2021, and updated to reflect current information.

Shoe Deals

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