How much does Adam Silver make as NBA commissioner? This is his net worth

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It’s now been more than a decade since Adam Silver took over as commissioner of the NBA, and by now he’s unquestionably a familiar face to basketball fans across the globe. But who exactly is he, and how much is he worth in 2025? Let’s take a closer look at the man at the helm of the league.

Adam Silver has revitalized the NBA

When he assumed office in February 2014, few could predict the kind of impact David Stern’s successor would have. Stern, who led the NBA for 30 years, left behind a massive legacy—but under Adam Silver’s leadership, the league has not only flourished, it has become a global economic powerhouse. As of 2025, the NBA is valued at around $100 billion, with the average franchise now worth more than $3.5 billion. The Golden State Warriors remain the most valuable team in the league, with an estimated worth of $8.2 billion.

Through the years with Adam Silver

Beyond the league’s financial growth, Silver’s tenure has been marked by several defining moments. In his first few months on the job, he was faced with the Donald Sterling scandal, in which the then-Clippers owner was caught making racist remarks. Silver acted swiftly, banning Sterling from the league for life and initiating the process that led to the sale of the team to former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer.

Another major challenge came in 2019 when then-Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey tweeted in support of the Hong Kong protests, triggering backlash from the Chinese government. While the controversy threatened the NBA’s business in China, Silver defended Morey’s right to free speech, reinforcing the league’s commitment to expression over profits.

More recently, Silver and the league suspended Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant for 25 games after a second video surfaced of the player brandishing a firearm. The league’s disciplinary action was seen as a test of Silver’s leadership in the era of viral scandals and athlete empowerment.

“I think that’s what Adam Silver is spelling out. There’s going to have to be a clear demonstration that his behavior is changing, that his life choices are changing.”

—@wojespn on the details of Ja Morant’s suspension pic.twitter.com/nB6MiiSvRa

— First Take (@FirstTake) June 16, 2023

Silver’s contract extension and net worth

Originally signed as commissioner with an annual salary of approximately $10 million, Silver’s contract was extended in 2018 through the 2023-24 season. However, in 2024, reports confirmed that Silver and the NBA were finalizing a new agreement that would keep him in the commissioner’s seat through at least the end of the decade, signaling strong confidence in his leadership.

With more than 30 years of service to the NBA, Silver’s net worth has continued to rise. As of May 2025, it is estimated to be between $40 and $50 million, thanks to both his salary and long-term performance bonuses. He joined the NBA in 1992 and previously served in roles including deputy commissioner, chief operating officer, and president of NBA Entertainment.

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Silver: a polarizing figure in 2025

While Silver has overseen record-breaking revenue and expanded the league’s global footprint, he has also faced criticism from fans and pundits alike. Some argue he has been too lenient with star players missing marquee games and not strict enough on competitive standards. Others praise him as a modern leader attuned to the evolving business of sports.

The announcement of his contract extension in 2024 sparked mixed reactions on social media. Supporters praised his economic achievements and stability, while detractors voiced concerns about the direction of the league under his watch. Some even linked the news to frustrations with issues like player load management and declining domestic TV ratings.

Looking ahead with NBA’s Silver

At 63 years old, Adam Silver shows no signs of slowing down. Under his leadership, the NBA has continued to grow its audience internationally, compete more closely with the NFL in viewership, and remain at the forefront of progressive social and business policy among U.S. sports leagues.