The recent downturn in the economy seemed to have hit nearly every industry. However, the lucrative endorsement deals and salaries of these NBA players show no signs of shortage. In fact, the 2010 NBA playoffs is putting some of the NBA top earners on display. These African-American top earners not only show breathtaking prowess on the floor, but also boast fortunes that afford them a luxury lifestyle outside of the arena. As the NBA finals approach their end, predictions on who will be the reigning unit in the bi-coastal rivalry between the Boston Celtics and LA Lakers are pouring in. Stepping outside of the heated debate, The Atlanta Post observes the teams through an economic lens to present the top 5 earners, based on annual salary, in the 2010 NBA finals.
5. Andrew Bynum
Team: L.A Lakers
Age: 22
Salary: $12.5 million
A relative newcomer to the game, Bynum is a player to watch – he shows great promise and has undeniable potential, but is currently hampered by a lack of consistency. Bynum’s performance has been marked by both flashes of greatness and moments of failure, but it’s already clear the next few years may bring much improvement and shape him into an excellent player. As a new player, Bynum doesn’t have lucrative endorsement opportunities like the other greats on this list, but if his game continues to improve, he’ll certainly attract the attention of companies seeking to put a fresh face on their marketing campaign.
4. Kevin Garnett
Team: Boston Celtics
Age: 34
Salary: $16.4 million
Endorsements: Adidas (possibly ending), Emerging shoe company ANTA
Kevin Garnett is the kind of player around whom a team rallies – a natural leader and an all-around distinguish player. The 2003-2004 MVP boasts exceptional performance in the paint, inspiring his team to charge onward and exhausting his opponent. His unique play style and genetic stock that mirrors a fictional character landed him a global multi-million dollar portfolio.
3. Ray Allen
Team: Boston Celtics
Age: 34
Salary: $17.8 million
Endorsements: Jordan
Ray Allen is the Celtics’ heavy artillery. His ability to incorporate sound fundamentals, an element missing from most players’ styles, is Mr. Allen’s signature. Although Allen is not largely endorsed by some of the other heavy-hitters on the list, he does not suffer financially. The U.S Olympic gold medalist is the face of the Jordan brand, a 3-point record breaker and the number three top earner in the 2010 NBA Finals.
2. Paul Pierce
Team: Boston Celtics
Age: 32
Salary: $19.8 million
Endorsements: Microsoft, Spalding, Nike, Citizen’s Bank
Paul Pierce is one of the Boston Celtics’ most distinguished players. An unstoppable scoring machine, his charged, energetic offensive style is a combination the 6’7 Power Forward uses to dominate the court. While his defensive game struggles to keep up with his offensive prowess, Pierce remains one of the league’s best players. Pierce’s skill has been saluted by several corporate brands, demonstrated in multiple endorsement deals.
1. Kobe Bryant
Team: LA Lakers
Age: 31
Salary: $23 million
Endorsements: McDonald’s, Nike, Upper Deck, Spalding, Sprite
In basketball fans’ minds, Kobe Bryant exist in one of two forms, you either love him or hate him—there is no medium. Since his 1996 entrance into the NBA he has etched his own lane as a NBA powerhouse. Bryant’s consistent leadership, passion and tenacity to ensure the Lakers come out on top, positions him as stand out among his colleagues. The four-time NBA championship winner’s multi-million dollar endorsement portfolio combined with his annual NBA earnings puts Bryant at the number one spot of the 2010 NBA playoff top earners list.
Game 7 will air Wednesday June 17th at 9:00 pm EST
