Longhorns star players may earn more than LeBron James this season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 26, 2026, 4:29 PM
Last updated Jul 26, 2026
LeBron James has signed with the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year deal worth $7.95 million, taking the veteran minimum of approximately $3.8 million for the upcoming season. As a result, several college players, including Texas Longhorns transfer David Punch, will reportedly earn more. Punch, who transferred from TCU, is considered a top talent and reportedly has a lucrative NIL deal. Another Texas player, Marcus Spears Jr., may also earn significantly as he joins the Longhorns ahead of his senior year in high school. These developments indicate a notable trend in college sports where NIL deals surpass traditional professional contracts for top collegiate athletes.
- •LeBron James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers for $3.8 million.
- •David Punch transferred to Texas from TCU with a lucrative NIL deal.
- •Punch averaged 14.1 points and 6.8 rebounds last season.
- •Marcus Spears Jr. has potential for significant NIL earnings after reclassifying.
- •Eighteen college players are set to earn more than LeBron James this season.
- 4:29 PMYahoo Sports — Which Longhorns player will make more than Lebron James this year?
"Lebron James took veteran minimum to chase a ring with Philadelphia 76ers. That means some college players make more, including a Longhorns player.
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