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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

Longhorns star players may earn more than LeBron James this season

Summary

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.

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By the Numbers

•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.

Latest Updates

4:29 PMYahoo Sports — Which Longhorns player will make more than Lebron James this year?

What they're saying

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Lebron James took veteran minimum to chase a ring with Philadelphia 76ers. That means some college players make more, including a Longhorns player.
— Yahoo Sports

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