There are some glaring contrasts between the NBA today and the NBA a decade ago. Since most teams want to get out on the break and make more three-pointers than ever, the game moves at a much faster tempo overall. A number of teams have seen an increase in value due to new sponsorships, broadcast deals, and ticket sales, which has led to greater payrolls for its best players.

The NBA Player’s Association reviews conditions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement with league officials every couple of years to make sure everything is in the best interests of both sides. As a result, we have witnessed an increase in long-term contracts, larger pay caps, and increased player empowerment.

For instance, consider the Los Angeles Lakers. One of the most beloved and prosperous teams in sports, they awarded multi-year contracts this offseason to a number of players, including Jarred Vanderbilt, Anthony Davis, Rui Hachimura, and Austin Reaves.

But LeBron James, who is expected to earn $47 million in 2023–2024, has been able to capitalize on his talents during his time in Los Angeles.

LeBron James has already accrued more than half of Kobe Bryant’s lifetime earnings with the Lakers, despite having played for the franchise for 15 less seasons, according to Shubham Singh of Essentially Sports.

“LeBron James will get paid over $50 million in salary for the 2023–24 season, as he is scheduled to begin the second year of his $99 million contract. He had previously inked an extension for $85 million, good for two years. Aside from that, he signed a $153 million, four-year contract as a rookie with the Lakers. James’ total earnings at the conclusion of his fifth season with the Lakers are estimated to be $197 million. When comparing Bryant’s $323,312,307 over 20 seasons to James’ $197,966,106 over five with the Lakers, we can see that LBJ has already paid for 60% of Bryant’s earnings.”

Two radically different basketball eras!