Michael Jordan's Contract Made Him Richer Than His Entire Team Combined

Michael Jordan's final season with the Chicago Bulls in 1997-98 was historic not just for winning his sixth championship, but for his unprecedented salary. Jordan earned $33.14 million that season, a figure that exceeded the entire payroll of 19 other NBA teams. To put this in perspective, the Vancouver Grizzlies' entire team salary was only $20.5 million, while Jordan alone made $33 million. This contract made Jordan the highest-paid athlete in team sports history at the time. The deal was orchestrated by the Bulls to reward Jordan for his contributions to the team's dynasty. His salary was more than double what any other NBA player earned that season, cementing his status as basketball's most valuable player both on and off the court.