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As the NBA season heats up, many fans are keeping a close eye on this year’s crop of rookie talent. These players are often fresh out of college, and eager to make an impact on the league. But how much can they expect to earn for their efforts? In this article, we will explore NBA rookie contract salary and what players can expect to make during their first few seasons in the league.
First, it’s important to understand that NBA rookie contracts are based on a slotting system. This means that the salary a player can earn is based on where they were selected in the draft. The earlier a player is drafted, the higher their salary will be. For example, the 2020 number one overall pick, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves, signed a four-year contract worth $44.2 million.
So, what do these contracts typically look like? In the 2020-2021 season, the minimum salary for a rookie was $898,310. This was for players drafted in the second round or signed as undrafted free agents. First-round picks, on the other hand, can expect to earn significantly more. The top 10 picks in the draft can earn up to $9.2 million in their first season, with the number one pick earning the most.
It’s also worth noting that rookie contracts are structured as “rookie scale” contracts. This means that the salary a player earns in their first year is set, and future salaries are based on pre-determined raises. These raises are based on a percentage of the salary cap, which is determined by the league each season. For example, in the 2020-2021 season, the salary cap was $109.1 million. This means that a player’s salary in their second season would be based on a percentage of that amount.
There are a few other factors that can impact a player’s salary, such as performance bonuses and endorsements. Some players may also negotiate a higher salary based on their perceived value to the team. However, these factors are less common and are not guaranteed.
In conclusion, NBA rookie contract salary is based on a slotting system that takes into account a player’s draft position. While the minimum salary for a rookie is just under $900,000, first-round picks can earn significantly more, with the top pick earning the most. These contracts are structured as “rookie scale” contracts, with raises based on a percentage of the league’s salary cap each season. While there are other factors that can impact a player’s salary, such as performance bonuses and endorsements, this is the basic framework for NBA rookie contracts.