The 2024-25 NBA season is more than a showcase of talented players—it’s also a stage for the head coaches who are getting paid very well. Living legends like Steve Kerr and Gregg Popovich and rising stars like Joe Mazzulla and JJ Redick are proving their coaching acumen. Yet, as the season heats up, the disparity in their paychecks is striking, with some elite coaches making more than double what their lower-paid peers earn. How do these salaries stack up, and which coaches are getting paid like the heavyweights they are?
Tier 1: $15,000,000+
Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors) – $17,500,000
Gregg Popovich (San Antonio Spurs) – $16,000,000
Erik Spoelstra (Miami Heat) – $15,000,000
Kerr’s salary, the highest among all NBA head coaches, is a testament to his track record of success with the Golden State Warriors. Over a near-decade tenure, he’s led the team to four championships, leveraging a sharp offensive mind and the ability to get the most out of superstars like Stephen Curry. Kerr’s pay reflects his standing as one of the most respected and accomplished figures in the game, and he has been thrust into a tough position without a supposed title-contending roster and has started the season 7-1.
Popovich is an NBA legend who continues to command a high salary as he rebuilds the Spurs around the No. 1 draft pick Victor Wembanyama. With over two decades of experience and multiple titles, his wealth of knowledge and strategic prowess are unmatched. Pop’s commitment to the Spurs franchise and his track record of developing players make him worth every penny, and hopefully he can return from his health issues and push Wembanyama to superstardom sooner rather than later.
Erik Spoelstra has earned his place among the NBA’s highest-paid coaches because of his adaptability and relentless work ethic. With the Heat frequently outperforming expectations, especially during deep playoff runs in 2020 and 2023 when they made the NBA Finals, Spoelstra’s salary reflects his excellence in player development and innovative game strategies.
Tier 2: $10,000,000 – $14,999,999
Tyronn Lue (Los Angeles Clippers) – $14,000,000
Mike Budenholzer (Phoenix Suns) – $10,000,000
Doc Rivers (Milwaukee Bucks) – $10,000,000
Known for his expertise in managing high-profile personalities, Lue’s coaching has been instrumental in the Clippers’ success. With a knack for making in-game adjustments, he’s built a strong reputation that justifies his spot in the upper echelon of coaching salaries. The only thing standing in Lue’s way in terms of making a playoff run is the health of Kawhi Leonard.
Budenholzer, who joined the Suns after his success with the Milwaukee Bucks, is tasked with navigating a new era in Phoenix alongside star players like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. His past championship experience and tactical flexibility are valuable assets for a franchise with championship aspirations, and Budenholzer is a key reason why the team has a 7-1 record in the West.
Doc Rivers’ return to the sidelines with the Bucks is a testament to his enduring reputation but also the questionable decision-making by the organization. Known for his motivational coaching style and championship pedigree, Rivers’ veteran experience is crucial as he seeks to guide the Bucks to success alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard but it hasn’t worked so far. The Bucks probably should not have fired Adrian Griffin after starting the season 30-13 last season, but they have to live with that decision and the fact that Rivers is making $10,000,000 this season.
Tier 3: $7,500,000 – $9,999,999
Mike Brown (Sacramento Kings) – $8,500,000
Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks) – $8,000,000
Mike Malone (Denver Nuggets) – $8,000,000
J.J. Redick (Los Angeles Lakers) – $8,000,000
Quin Snyder (Atlanta Hawks) – $8,000,000
Tom Thibodeau (New York Knicks) – $8,000,000
Nick Nurse (Philadelphia 76ers) – $8,000,000
Mike Brown’s salary reflects his critical role in revitalizing the Kings, helping them emerge from a prolonged playoff drought. Known for his defensive prowess, he has infused Sacramento with a disciplined approach while also fostering talent like De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. His leadership has set a new standard for a franchise long in need of stability, making him one of the highest earners in this tier.
Kidd’s salary is a nod to his experience and his ability to work effectively with stars like Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Known for his basketball IQ and ability to manage high-stakes moments, Kidd has helped keep the Dallas Mavericks competitive, leading the team to the NBA Finals last season. Kidd is the definition of a player’s coach and his success will likely be spearheaded by the duo of Doncic and Irving going forward.
Malone’s tenure in Denver has been marked by his strong leadership and rapport with Nikola Jokic, culminating in an NBA championship in 2022-23. His player-first approach and defensive acumen have been instrumental in the Nuggets’ growth, transforming the team into a serious contender in the West. Malone’s salary recognizes his sustained success and the respect he commands within the organization.
As a new addition to the coaching ranks, Redick brings fresh energy and perspective to the Lakers. Known for his intelligence and experience as a former sharpshooter, Redick is tasked with bridging the gap between a star-studded roster and a youthful core. Redick has impressed this season even if the Lakers have a 4-4 record and he could be one of the best coaches in the NBA in due time.
Snyder’s analytical and high-tempo style makes him a strong fit for the Hawks’ young roster. Since joining Atlanta, Snyder has focused on building a resilient team centered around Trae Young and No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher. His track record with the Jazz, where he consistently led them to the playoffs, underlines his value and his potential to take the Hawks to the next level.
Known for his intense defensive schemes, Tom Thibodeau’s presence in New York has reshaped the Knicks’ identity. His ability to instill discipline and demand effort has turned them into a playoff team in recent seasons. With reinforcements around Jalen Brunson including Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, the Knicks have very high expectations for the entire season.
Nurse, who led the Toronto Raptors to their first championship in 2019, is known for his innovative and adaptable coaching style. Now with the Sixers, he brings a fresh outlook and new tactics that aim to maximize the potential of Joel Embiid and the surrounding roster. Nurse’s proven track record in big games and his reputation as a strategic thinker justify his salary and make him one of the most intriguing additions to Philadelphia’s bench.
Tier 4: $5,000,000 – $7,499,999
Rick Carlisle (Indiana Pacers) – $7,250,000
Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets) – $7,000,000
Jamahl Mosley (Orlando Magic) – $7,000,000
Billy Donovan (Chicago Bulls) – $6,000,000
Chris Finch (Minnesota Timberwolves) – $5,000,000
J.B. Bickerstaff (Detroit Pistons) – $5,000,000
Carlisle, one of the NBA’s most respected minds, has a reputation for optimizing talent and elevating young rosters. His vast experience and tactical acumen are seen as essential to the Pacers’ goal to contend for a championship, especially as he works to build around stars Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. His salary underscores his high regard within the league and Indiana’s commitment to his long-term vision for the team.
Following a successful stint with the Boston Celtics, Udoka now heads the Houston Rockets, a team rich in young talent. Known for his defensive-minded approach and ability to connect with players, Udoka’s leadership is expected to help the Rockets establish an identity and guide their young core toward contention. His salary reflects the team’s belief in his capability to set a new direction for Houston.
Mosley’s high salary among relatively new head coaches demonstrates Orlando’s confidence in his player-development skills. He has proven instrumental in nurturing a youthful Magic roster featuring talents like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, building a strong foundation for the team’s future. His ability to connect with younger players and foster growth justifies his salary and role in Orlando’s long-term plans.
Donovan brings stability to a Chicago franchise in need of a steady hand. Known for his strong communication skills and adaptability, he’s been essential in helping the Bulls navigate roster changes and injuries. His experience at both the college and professional levels makes him an ideal fit for a team looking to balance its veteran stars with developmental goals, and his salary reflects that versatility.
Finch’s tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves has shown promise, as he works to mold a competitive team around Anthony Edwards. After the team reached the Western Conference Finals last season, Finch’s offensive creativity and player-friendly approach are central to Minnesota’s ambitions. Finch’s relatively moderate salary reflects his emerging status in the coaching ranks, though his potential and rapport with the team give him a strong upside in this role.
Recently moving to the Pistons, Bickerstaff is tasked with overseeing Detroit’s young and talented roster as they seek to rise in the Eastern Conference. Known for his ability to develop players and instill a sense of resilience, his experience and relationship-building skills are key to the Pistons’ gradual rebuilding process. His salary reflects both his experience and his essential role in Detroit’s plans for growth.
Tier 5: Below $5,000,000
Joe Mazzulla (Boston Celtics) – $4,700,000
Mark Daigenault (Oklahoma City Thunder) – $4,000,000
Darko Rajakovic (Toronto Raptors) – $4,000,000
Will Hardy (Utah Jazz) – $4,000,000
Brian Keefe (Washington Wizards) – $4,000,000
Taylor Jenkins (Memphis Grizzlies) – $2,500,000
Kenny Atkinson (Cleveland Cavaliers) – $2,500,000
Willie Green (New Orleans Pelicans) – $2,000,000
Chauncey Billups (Portland Trail Blazers) – $2,000,000
Charles Lee (Charlotte Hornets) – $2,000,000
Jordi Fernandez (Brooklyn Nets) – $2,000,000
Despite his relatively modest salary, Mazzulla has quickly proven his value with the Boston Celtics, leading them to championship success last season as a young head coach. Known for his strong communication skills and adaptability, Mazzulla is praised for connecting well with his players, making him a rising star in the coaching ranks even as his pay lags behind higher-profile coaches. As long as Mazzulla can win another NBA title, his name could be etched in history.
Daigneault has quietly earned recognition for his development work in OKC, guiding a young roster with talents like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren. His focus on player growth and adaptability has been critical in shaping the Thunder’s rebuilding process and is ready to contend for a title far earlier than we could have imagined.
New to the head coaching ranks, Darko Rajakovic brings a global perspective and tactical knowledge to the Raptors. Tasked with developing younger talent while managing seasoned players, he’s expected to bring fresh strategies to Toronto’s versatile roster. His salary reflects the team’s investment in his potential as he makes his mark in his first head coaching role.
Will Hardy, one of the NBA’s youngest head coaches, has already shown he can lead and develop a young Jazz team. Known for his strategic mind and calm demeanor, he’s been instrumental in fostering Utah’s rebuilding efforts with players like Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler. His salary suggests the Jazz see him as a long-term leader who can help the team grow.
Stepping into a rebuilding team and a rather tough situation, Brian Keefe is tasked with helping the Wizards reshape their identity with a fresh start. His experience as an assistant and development-focused approach align well with Washington’s goals to grow young talent. His salary reflects his role as a first-time head coach with a focus on creating foundational change in D.C.
Jenkins has been instrumental in Memphis’ recent successes, guiding the Grizzlies through playoff runs and fostering the development of Ja Morant and other young stars. Known for his player-first approach and emphasis on defense, Jenkins has outperformed his salary level, proving his impact as Memphis seeks to continue its rise in the Western Conference.
With a reputation for player development, Atkinson’s return to head coaching with the Cavaliers focuses on building depth and defensive versatility. His affordable salary underscores his role as a tactical coach capable of getting the best out of Cleveland’s roster as they aim to solidify their playoff potential around star players like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland.
Willie Green has quickly gained respect in New Orleans, steering the Pelicans through ups and downs with a young core led by Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. His leadership and player-friendly approach have endeared him to the roster, making him an important figure for the Pelicans’ future despite a lower salary.
Chauncey Billups’ NBA experience as a player translates well into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing resilience and discipline. His role in Portland, especially after the departure of Damian Lillard, focuses on guiding the team’s young talent and laying a new foundation. His salary reflects his relatively recent transition to coaching, with the potential to grow.
As a first-time head coach, Lee is tasked with helping Charlotte develop players like LaMelo Ball while reshaping the team’s culture. Known for his player development work as an assistant, he brings a fresh perspective to the Hornets. His salary underscores his newness in the role, with room to increase as he establishes himself.
Fernandez, another first-time head coach, brings a deep international coaching background to Brooklyn. His experience and focus on fundamentals are expected to benefit a Nets team transitioning to a new phase post-superstar era. His salary reflects the franchise’s investment in his potential to grow with the team.
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