Los Angeles
Basketball icon LeBron James has laughed off reports claiming his net worth is over USD 1.2 billion, saying he has only “a couple thousand” in his bank account. Speaking on the podcast 360 With Speedy, the Los Angeles Lakers star insisted online figures are exaggerated.
“Google search is a lie. It’s wrong. It’s way less. I got a couple thousand. That’s it,” James said, dismissing estimates from Google and Forbes, which valued him at around USD 1.3 billion. Known for his lucrative NBA contracts and endorsements with Nike, PepsiCo, and Beats by Dre, LeBron joked that most of what he owns comes free from sponsors.
The 40-year-old NBA great added humor, saying his children now “got all the money” through name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. “They take care of Dad now. I’m broke,” he quipped.
James, a four-time NBA champion and four-time MVP, is widely considered one of the greatest players in basketball history. In 2023, he surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the league’s all-time leading scorer. Despite his legendary status and commercial success, James insisted people should not believe inflated online figures.
Beyond finances, he also reflected on personal life, speaking candidly about his marriage to his high-school sweetheart Savannah. He admitted long-term relationships “ain’t always a bed of roses” but said honesty, compromise, and working through challenges keep their bond strong.
Though dismissing billionaire labels, LeBron remains one of the most influential athletes globally, both on and off the court, admired for his success, leadership, and willingness to speak openly.