Get ready to wrap your head around this, because it’s wild: Florida forward Thomas Haugh is about to pull in more NIL money next season than LeBron James will make playing for the Philadelphia 76ers.
The Money Talk is Absolutely Bonkers
Yeah, you read that right. Haugh, after making the savvy move of withdrawing from the 2026 NBA Draft and heading back to the swamp, is looking at more than $10 million for the 2026-27 season. Meanwhile, LeBron’s contract with the 76ers is sitting at $3.8 million. That’s the lowest amount of his entire career, by the way. Haugh’s figure? It more than doubles what King James is projected to make! It’s absolutely bonkers to think about a college player out-earning one of the all-time NBA greats by such a huge margin.
Why This Is a Game Changer for Hoops
This isn’t just a fun fact; it’s a massive statement about where college basketball is heading. It screams loud and clear about the huge benefits for top collegiate players who choose to stay in school. Plus, it really puts a spotlight on the bargain the 76ers managed to snag LeBron for. With all these NIL deals and revenue-sharing opportunities exploding, top college stars can now command contracts that flat-out rival, and sometimes even surpass, veteran minimums in the NBA. Haugh was no slouch last season either, leading the Gators with 17 points per game on 46% shooting. He was a key piece, and he’s returning as one of their most important guys. Now, he’s got this incredible distinction going into the new season.
So, when Haugh steps onto the court next season, he won’t just be a standout college player. He’ll be entering it with an honor very few, if any, NBA stars can claim: out-earning LeBron James. What a time to be a college athlete!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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