What LeBron James’ New Contract Means On and Off the Court

NBA Superstar Lebron James made headlines yet again as his agent, Rich Paul, announced that James resigned with the Lakers for a record-setting two-year deal worth $97.1M. Such a contract makes him the highest-earning player in NBA history with over half a billion dollars in earnings thus far. James, with four NBA rings, four MVP awards, and an 18-time all-star is arguably one of the greatest to play basketball.

Yet James’ success isn’t only on the court. LeBron’s endorsement deal with Nike brings in $600M to Nike annually, making him an indispensable asset to Nike. Furthermore, his other endorsements run the gamut, from AT&T, and Coca-Cola to Beats Electronics and Kia Motors. These additional promotions made him the first athlete to earn $ 1 billion whilst still an active competitor. Fortunately, James’ earnings enable him to be a notably charitable figure.

One year after he was drafted to the NBA, James founded the Lebron Family Foundation, which raises funds for The Boys and Girls Club of America, After-School All-Stars, the Children’s Defense Fund, Gabriel’s Angel Foundation, and ONEXONE. In addition to those charities, James made headlines after his founding of the I Promise School, which he built for children at risk in his hometown of Akron, Ohio. He’s also donated money to help send kids to college and purchase school supplies, and bicycles and aided them in accessing computers. So after his new deal with the Lakers, it is evident that the public will see more of James’ communal and business endeavors in a matter of time.