Ben Simmons is one of the most recognizable names in modern NBA basketball, and his earnings reflect his star power. Understanding how much did Ben Simmons make in the NBA means looking at his rookie scale contract, long-term extensions, and add-ons.
Below is a detailed snapshot of his earnings structure through the years, followed by deeper insights into his career and finances.
| Season | Team | Salary | Contract Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016-17 | Philadelphia 76ers | $5.9M | Rookie Scale |
| 2017-18 | Philadelphia 76ers | $6.4M | Rookie Scale |
| 2018-19 | Philadelphia 76ers | $11.8M | 2016 Rookie Scale |
| 2020-21 | Brooklyn Nets | $33.2M | Supermax Extension |
| 2022-23 | Brooklyn Nets | $39.3M | Contract Buyout After Waiver |
Rookie Contract Structure and Earnings
2016-2019: Entry-Level Years
Ben Simmons signed a standard rookie scale contract after being drafted first overall in 2016. During his initial seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, his salary increased annually as outlined by the collective bargaining agreement. By his third season, he reached the maximum raise available for players on a rookie contract.
Contract Extensions and Team Options
Before the 2019-20 season, the 76ers exercised the team option on Simmons’ deal, locking him into a contract extension. This option guaranteed higher salary figures and reflected his role as a primary franchise piece, setting the stage for his eventual move to Brooklyn.
Brooklyn Nets Era and Supermax Deal
2020-2022: Free Agency and Supermax
When Simmons joined the Brooklyn Nets, he signed a reported four-year supermax extension worth over $100 million. This type of contract is typically reserved for players who meet specific All-Star and performance criteria, making it one of the largest contracts in the league at the time.
2022-2023: Final Seasons and Buyout
Even after injuries and limited availability, the Nets remained committed to his deal. After being waived and clearing waivers, his buyout with the Nets still required the team to pay a large portion of his remaining salary, illustrating the financial weight of long-term contracts in the NBA.
Career Earnings and Endorsements
NBA Salary Total
Through his years in Philadelphia and Brooklyn, Simmons earned well over $200 million in base salary alone. Factoring in incentives and potential opt-outs, his total compensation package was among the highest for players in his draft class.
Off-Court Income and Market Value
While exact endorsement figures are not always public, high-profile players like Simmons typically secure lucrative deals with major brands. These outside earnings can sometimes exceed his NBA salary, especially during peak years in the spotlight.
Physical Profile and Team Impact
| Attribute | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6'11" | |
| Weight | 240 lbs | |
| Position | Point Guard | |
| Draft Year | 2016 | |
| College | LSU |
Key Takeaways
- Simmons earned more than $200 million in NBA salary across his career.
- His rookie contract was structured with predictable annual increases through the scale.
- A supermax extension in Brooklyn pushed his annual earnings into the $30+ million range.
- Contract buyouts still require teams to honor the majority of remaining salary.
- Off-court earnings and brand deals often multiply a star player’s total income.
FAQ
Reader questions
How much did Ben Simmons make in his first NBA season? Ben Simmons earned $5.9 million during his rookie campaign with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016-17, according to the rookie scale contract terms set by the NBA and the collective bargaining agreement. What was the value of his supermax extension with the Nets?
Simmons signed a four-year supermax extension worth approximately $130 million with the Brooklyn Nets, reflecting the higher salary cap space and performance thresholds he met while with Philadelphia.
Did he earn more with the Sixers or the Nets?
His earnings increased significantly when he moved to Brooklyn, with annual averages more than tripling compared to his final years in Philadelphia under his rookie contract.
What happened to his contract after the buyout?
Even after being waived, the Nets remained responsible for paying a large portion of his remaining salary, which demonstrated how long-term NBA deals continue to carry financial weight after a player leaves the roster.