Stephen Curry sparks debate, claims NBA players are 'underpaid'

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry has sparked conversation by claiming that NBA players are 'underpaid' despite the league’s soaring revenues. In a recent interview, Curry emphasized that while players earn millions, their compensation doesn’t fully reflect the value they bring to the league and global entertainment industry.

Despite NBA players averaging nearly $12 million in salary during the 2024-25 season - far outpacing the NFL's $3 million average - Curry believes players are still underpaid.

Curry, who is set to earn close to $60 million next season, recently spoke his heart out on '360 with Speedy' podcast with Speedy Morman. When asked if he and his fellow NBA players are underpaid, the two-time MVP thoughtfully responded yes - but took time to explain his perspective.



Curry emphasized that, while the salaries seem massive, they don’t always reflect the true value players bring to the league’s global success.

"I think, because of the way the CBA is structured right now, we can't participate in equity. And that's a big deal because it is a partnership with ownership. It's a partnership with the league, and we're on the short term of that revenue," Curry opined.

"Those (contract) numbers sound crazy, but what the league is doing, from whatever era you want to compare it to, to now, is probably 10x that. The idea that we can't participate in equity while we're playing is part of why I would say yes, we are underpaid, because we want to be able to participate in that rise.

"Hopefully, sooner than later, those rules change a little bit so that players can participate more in the upside of team equity, the league, valuations, and all that type of stuff. Just because I think we deserve it."

Curry believes NBA players should have the opportunity to earn ownership stakes in their teams while still active - something currently barred by the league’s collective bargaining agreement. He argues that players, who are directly responsible for generating fan interest and revenue, deserve a share in the skyrocketing value of franchises.

Team valuations have exploded over the years. In 2000, the Knicks topped Forbes' list at $395 million. By 2025, the Lakers sold at a staggering $10 billion valuation. The Warriors, thanks largely to Curry’s influence, have soared from $168 million in 2000 to $8.8 billion in 2024.

With the current CBA set through 2029-30 - but with a potential opt-out in 2028-29 - equity opportunities and luxury tax penalties will likely be key negotiation points. Players are expected to push hard for greater long-term financial involvement.