Rookie salaries show league power gaps
The 2025 NBA Draft concluded with 59 players selected across both rounds. Duke’s Cooper Flagg was the no. 1 overall pick and the Dallas Mavericks went for him.
The draft system isn’t unique to the NBA, leagues like the NFL, MLB, and NHL also use it to recruit new talent. It provides youngsters an opportunity to kick start their pro journey. While the draft formats may be similar across leagues, the rookie salaries vary dramatically.
The MLB, NFL, NHL, and NBA have different market power and valuation which also affects the kind of money that the leagues draw. This in turn also affects not only the overall product but other aspects as well such as the salary of a player.
Among all major leagues’ draft events this year, NBA top pick Cooper Flagg secured the highest rookie contract. After getting picked by the Dallas Mavericks, Flagg will be earning around $62.7 million over his first four years. In his first year, he will receive $13.8 million.
Compared to the No. 1 picks in other leagues, the NBA offers a significantly higher rookie payout. The NBA’s global reach and massive international fan base are key reasons behind its financial muscle, especially during the Draft season. MLB’s draft event is set to take place in July this year but their pick number one will earn $11.08 million.
The Washington Nationals have the first pick and they are likely to select Kade Anderson. While in third position is the NFL which remains the most popular league but only in the U.S. This year’s first pick Cam Ward will be earning $8.84 million.
The former Washington State was selected by the Tennessee Titans. On the last is the NHL’s rookie salary which is at just $975k. Matthew Schaefer was picked up by the New York Islanders.
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