LeBron James breaks the myth: why his fortune is far from the billion announced by Google
July 6, 2023; North Augusta, S.C., USA; NBA star LeBron James coaches Strive for Greatness during the Strive for Greatness and Mokan Elite basketball game at the fourth day of the Nike Peach Jam at Riverview Park Activities Center. Mandatory Credit: Katie Goodale-USA TODAY Network
Statements that question media estimates
LeBron James surprised everyone during a recent interview with Complex, on the show 360 With Speedy. At 40, the basketball legend strongly disputed estimates of his fortune, often evaluated at $1.2 billion by specialized media and relayed by search engines.
LeBron James claims his net worth is much less than the reported $1.2B. Details: https://t.co/f7VarVefB7 pic.twitter.com/iPtMLEwtmN
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) September 19, 2025
A career marked by lucrative contracts despite his claims
When host Speedy Morman reminded him that a « simple Google search » showed this colossal amount, the Los Angeles Lakers player immediately reacted. He stated: « You want me to start lying? The Google search is a lie. It’s false. It’s much less. Much less. I just have a few thousand in the bank. I have a few thousand. That’s it. »
These statements strongly contrast with his status as the first active NBA player billionaire that Forbes has attributed to him since 2022. Continuing humorously, LeBron James added that most of his possessions were given to him: « Everything I have on me is free. This Richard Mille LeBron edition watch… My wedding ring that says My queen… Free! Cap, durag… Free!«
A financial track record that contradicts his claims
Since entering the NBA after being drafted first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, LeBron James has signed several nine-figure contracts. Most recently, in summer 2025, he extended his commitment with the Lakers for an additional season, with a salary of $52.6 million.
Moreover, beyond his sports income, « The King » has built a true commercial empire. He multiplies lucrative partnerships with brands like Nike, PepsiCo and Beats by Dre. In parallel, he has launched his own companies, including the entertainment company SpringHill Company and the sports nutrition brand Ladder.
A self-deprecating conclusion
To end the interview, the star once again showed his humor: « I don’t have any money, man. My kids have all the money now, with NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) contracts and all that. They take care of dad now. Me, I have nothing left. I’m broke. » This remark particularly referenced his son Bronny, who now plays on the same team as him, with the Lakers.
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