Paul George, in an episode of his podcast “Podcast P with Paul George,” revealed a fascinating story about his first major purchase after signing his rookie contract with the Indiana Pacers. The story provides a glimpse into the mind of a young athlete suddenly thrust into immense wealth. George’s rookie deal was worth $10.5 million, a significant sum for a 20-year-old. Despite this windfall, George admitted he was trying to be frugal with his newfound wealth.
“My first purchase, I think I got a Ferrari. What’s funny about this story… I just made my deal, right? And I was still trying to be cheap at the same time. This is how cheap I was, though. My a** went on eBay to look for a Ferrari. I bought my first Ferrari on eBay.”
“I was like, ‘Damn, I want one. What’s the cheapest one I can get?’ I bought a 430, all black, low mileage. The dude was actually a cool dude. He owned a ton of cars, had a huge car collection, and he was like, ‘I’ll sell it to you.’”
“He was a fan. I’ll sell it to you. So I got it for the low, and it was a smooth transaction. Low mileage on a Ferrari, it was a 430.” (6:57)
The purchase was a Ferrari F430 Spider, a high-performance sports car that symbolizes success and luxury. George bought it for $120,000, a relative bargain for such an esteemed vehicle. This transaction was facilitated by the seller, a car enthusiast with an extensive collection, who happened to be a fan of George. This fortunate coincidence made the process seamless for the NBA rookie.
While his rookie season was challenging, averaging 7.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, George’s career trajectory soon soared. By his third year, he had developed into a star player, competing fiercely against LeBron James in the Eastern Conference Finals. His performance established him as a formidable force in the NBA, and he continued to grow from there.
Interestingly, buying a Ferrari has become a tradition for George every time he signs a new deal. He mentioned that following his recent $212 million max contract, another Ferrari was on its way. This ritual not only celebrates his financial success but also marks the milestones of his illustrious career.
The Level Of NBA Contracts Is Crazy
One of the reasons why players like Paul George and other NBA rookies make extravagant purchases is the substantial financial cushion provided by their rookie deals. The scale of NBA contracts today enables young players to afford luxurious items that were once unimaginable.
The level of NBA contracts today is staggering, reflecting the explosive growth of the league’s revenue and popularity. Thirty years ago, the highest-paid player in the league was David Robinson, earning $5.7 million. Fast forward to last season, and Stephen Curry topped the salary charts with $51.9 million. This dramatic increase showcases the evolution of NBA finances and the enormous value placed on top talent.
In 1996-97, Michael Jordan shattered previous salary records by signing the first $30 million contract, a groundbreaking deal at the time. Today, $30 million is not even exclusive to superstars; it is a common figure for key players and reliable starters. This shift underscores the financial boom the NBA has experienced over the past few decades.
Jayson Tatum currently holds the largest contract in NBA history at $315 million, setting a new benchmark for player earnings. However, this is just the beginning. The future of NBA contracts looks even more lucrative. Giannis Antetokounmpo is poised to sign a deal worth approximately $334 million over five years.
Joel Embiid, the former MVP, can secure a five-year extension valued at around $367 million in the summer of 2025. Luka Doncic, with his impressive skill set, is eligible for a similar contract. By the summer of 2026, Nikola Jokic might ink the NBA’s first $400 million contract, specifically five years at $404 million. Jalen Brunson could potentially sign a $418 million deal by 2029, illustrating the limitless growth of NBA player salaries.
This trend is not limited to veteran players. Rookie deals have also seen a massive jump. In 1995-96, the number one pick signed a contract worth $8.5 million. In contrast, this year’s top pick, Zaccharie Risacher, secured a $57 million deal. The comparison highlights the exponential increase in rookie contract values over the years.
These astronomical figures reflect the NBA’s massive revenue streams from television deals, sponsorships, and global popularity. As the league continues to expand its reach and influence, player salaries are expected to keep soaring, setting new records and redefining the financial landscape of professional basketball.
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