Magic Johnson Earned Less Than OG Anunoby—But Turned It Into $1.5 Billion and a Superyacht Flex
OG Anunoby’s 2025 salary? A jaw-dropping $42.5 million. Magic Johnson’s entire career earnings from 13 legendary seasons with the Lakers? Just under $40 million. But don’t be fooled—Magic didn’t just win five NBA titles, three MVPs, and a Finals MVP as a rookie. He turned that modest paycheck into a $1.5 billion empire.
Magic’s pivotal 1981 contract—$25 million over 25 years—was revolutionary at the time. Yet, his real play began post-retirement. Through Magic Johnson Enterprises, he built wealth by revitalizing underserved communities, launching Starbucks, movie theaters, and healthcare hubs in areas others ignored.
Today? He’s waving from a luxury superyacht on Europe’s coast, challenging fellow billionaire and NBA legend Michael Jordan, who was also spotted yachting in the Mediterranean. Jordan, worth $3.5 billion largely thanks to Nike’s Jordan Brand, earned $93 million in NBA salaries—but his legacy now lies in brand dominance, not just basketball.
LeBron James is next. With over $528 million in salary and a $1.2 billion net worth, he’s carving his own business empire through SpringHill, sports ownership, and a lifetime Nike deal.
The lesson? Vision beats paycheck. These icons didn’t just play the game—they redefined the endgame.
