Kevin Durant has officially become the highest-earning player in NBA history, surpassing LeBron James, after inking a two-year, 90 million USD contract with the Houston Rockets.
The deal pushes Durant’s total career earnings to a staggering 598.2 million USD in current and future salaries — edging out James, who has earned 583.9 million USD throughout his legendary career.
Durant, now 37 years old, continues to make history nearly two decades into his professional career. His new deal also solidifies his reputation as one of the most consistent and sought-after players in modern basketball.
Durant’s Record-Breaking Career Earnings
This new milestone comes after Durant joined the Rockets in July 2025 as part of what analysts called the largest trade in NBA history.
To bring Durant to Houston, the Rockets traded away a massive package including Jalen Green (the No. 2 overall pick in 2021), Dillon Brooks, and three other players to the Phoenix Suns.
The move instantly positioned Houston as a championship contender once again, reviving memories of its back-to-back NBA titles in 1994 and 1995.
The Rockets’ Championship Ambitions
Last season, the Rockets finished with the second-best record in the Western Conference, marking their first playoff appearance since 2020. However, they suffered an early first-round exit to the Golden State Warriors, prompting a major offseason roster shake-up.
Now with Durant leading the charge, expectations are sky-high for Houston to make a deeper postseason run.
Durant, who averaged 26.6 points, six rebounds, and 4.2 assists last season with the Suns, remains a dominant offensive force despite his age.
If he delivers another stellar season, he could add a third NBA championship ring to his résumé — and his first since 2018 with Golden State.
A New Era for Durant and the Rockets
For Durant, this deal isn’t just about money — it’s about legacy. With a roster built around his leadership and scoring prowess, Houston is betting big on one of the greatest players of his generation to lead them back to glory.
As the 2025–26 NBA season tips off, all eyes will be on Kevin Durant — the man who just became the richest player in NBA history, still chasing one last title to cap off a career that has already defined an era.
