1. LeBron James – $900 Million
Ranking first is LeBron James who racked up career salary earnings of over $900 million, providing the highest paid athletes basis on contracts and NBA salaries alone.

You will know the LeBron James known for his influence and on court excellence; a man that signed numerous record breaking deals for the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers. From salary alone, his recent contract extensions mean he still falls within the top echelon of NBA earners.