Even though superstars like LeBron James make a ton of money, there is still a very good argument that they are underpaid. In fact, one NBA team reportedly calculated that LeBron could generate about double in revenue compared to what he is paid in salary per season.
According to ESPN’s Ian Begley, an NBA team ran an analysis that concluded LeBron could generate about $65 million in annual revenue.
Members of an ownership group from an NBA team ran an analysis that concluded signing LeBron James could generate approximately $65 million annually for the franchise, per sources. He’s projected to sign a contract worth $35 million for the 2018-19 season.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 30, 2018
Not only does LeBron generate millions for franchises, but he is also extremely profitable for the city in which he plays, as well as the NBA as a whole. He helps bring in sponsorship and advertising dollars, and he attracts fans to games, who in turn spend money around the area to pump up the economy.
Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert may think he will be fine if LeBron leaves for Los Angeles, but plenty of data suggests otherwise and show what significant revenue he would lose out on.
