The 2025-2026 NBA season is witnessing the continued dominance of two global superstars: Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic. These European talents are not just leading their teams on the court with victories and highlight plays, but they are also building formidable financial empires off it. Their journey from promising rookies to the league's highest earners is a testament to their skill and marketability.
The Financial Titans: Contracts and Career Milestones
Both athletes have secured historic contracts that have reshaped the NBA's financial landscape. Nikola Jokic began his NBA journey with the Denver Nuggets in 2014. His path to superstardom was cemented with a record-breaking $264 million supermax contract signed in June 2022, a five-year deal that made him the highest-paid player at that time.
On the other side, Luka Doncic entered the league with the Dallas Mavericks in 2018. He quickly made his mark by signing a supermax rookie extension in 2021 worth $207 million over five years, which was the largest such extension in league history. His move to the Los Angeles Lakers in August 2025 came with another massive deal: a 3-year, $165 million contract extension.
Breaking Down the 2025-2026 Season Earnings
The current season showcases a fascinating salary duel between the two MVPs. According to ESPN, Luka Doncic's salary for the 2025-2026 season is $54,126,450. This represents a significant jump from the $43,031,940 he earned in the 2024-2025 season, driven largely by his new Lakers contract.
However, Nikola Jokic currently holds a slight edge in annual earnings. Jokic's salary for this season is $55,224,526, placing him firmly among the top three highest-paid players in the NBA. He has maintained this elite earning position since the previous season.
Net Worth and Lucrative Brand Endorsements
While salaries are colossal, the players' net worth is bolstered significantly by off-court ventures. As per Celebrity Net Worth, Nikola Jokic's current net worth is estimated at $120 million. His total earnings from NBA contracts alone surpass a staggering $412 million, including a $148 million maximum extension signed in 2018.
Luka Doncic's net worth is reported to be $100 million. Despite trailing Jokic slightly, his trajectory suggests rapid growth. His marketability is immense, with lucrative sponsorship deals with global giants like Nike, Jordan, Gatorade, Bose, and Panini. He also featured on the cover of the popular video game NBA 2k22.
Jokic's portfolio, though perhaps more selective, is equally impressive. He has secured partnerships with brands such as Panini, Expedia Group, Western Union, and 361 Degrees.
The Verdict and Future Outlook
In the head-to-head financial comparison for the 2025-2026 season, Nikola Jokic leads in both net worth ($120M vs $100M) and current salary. His longer tenure in the league and earlier mega-contract have given him a financial head start.
However, Luka Doncic's move to the marquee Los Angeles Lakers franchise and his explosive marketability indicate that the gap could close swiftly. The rate of his earnings growth suggests his net worth might see a substantial increase by the next season. This financial rivalry off the hardwood adds another captivating layer to the legacy these two phenomenal athletes are building.
