Dereck Lively II is turning heads in the NBA, but not just with his skills. He’s got fans and analysts alike wondering about his bank balance. After being drafted 12th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, the big 7-foot center has made an immediate impression.

But what’s even more exciting than his highlight reel plays? The money he’s already stacking and the opportunities that are likely on the horizon. Let’s break down how much Lively is really earning, where his net worth stands right now, and what the future holds for the NBA rookie.

What is Dereck Lively’s net worth and salary?

The Oklahoma City Thunder drafted Dereck Lively 12th overall in 2023, marking the start of something big. But here’s the twist—before the ink could dry, he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, putting him in an even better position to show his stuff.

Now, as a first-round draft pick, Lively is guaranteed a solid paycheck. NBA rookies, particularly first-rounders, don’t get by with pocket change. A first-round pick’s salary is pretty much guaranteed to land somewhere between $5 million and $7 million over the course of their rookie contract. The exact figure depends on a few factors, but given his high draft position and the fact that the Mavs are expecting big things from him, Lively’s contract is probably on the higher side of that range.

The salary breakdown follows the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA), meaning that Lively’s contract will gradually increase each year. The kicker? Lively’s performance on the court could boost his earnings even further, thanks to performance incentives built into the deal. These bonuses could be tied to team success, individual stats, or even all-star selections down the line.

So, Lively’s looking at a solid chunk of change to start off his NBA career, and he’s only getting started. This rookie salary is just the beginning (crazy, right?).

Dereck Lively’s Endorsement Deals

Lively’s earnings won’t be limited to his NBA salary, though. NBA rookies, especially those selected in the first round, often have endorsement deals lined up, even before they step foot on an NBA court. While we haven’t heard the details of Lively’s first endorsement deal just yet, he’s got the potential to be a marketing magnet.

Look at players like Zion Williamson, Jayson Tatum, and Luka Dončić—who, in addition to their NBA salaries, have inked multi-million-dollar deals with some of the biggest brands in the world. These endorsements often end up earning players even more than their actual contracts.

And given Lively’s sky-high potential, it’s highly likely that he’ll attract big brand names, particularly in sportswear and lifestyle sectors. Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, you name it. Lively has the appeal to land deals with top companies.

Plus, this is just the beginning. As Lively’s game improves and his brand gets bigger, it’s easy to imagine his endorsement deals going from good to great. From athletic wear to tech companies and beyond, there’s a ton of room for growth in his endorsement portfolio.

Social Media Influence & Personal Brand

Let’s not forget the power of social media in today’s athlete economy. Dereck Lively is already building a presence on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, and the growth potential there is huge. Social media isn’t just about keeping fans hooked; rather, it’s a great way to build a personal brand that can turn into major cash.

The NBA has seen players like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry turn their social media platforms into business ventures, and Lively is already well on his way. Whether it’s posting game-day workouts, behind-the-scenes content, or just sharing his personality, Lively is cultivating a following that brands are going to want to tap into.

As his online following grows, he’ll be able to partner with lifestyle brands, tech companies, and even fitness products. Some athletes can make tens of thousands—or even millions—through sponsored posts and collaborations.

So, don’t be surprised if Lively’s social media becomes another major source of income. As long as he keeps the content engaging and authentic, he could see his income rise thanks to brand partnerships.

Other Income Sources

For players like Lively, there are plenty of other ways to make money. Personal appearances, basketball camps, and merchandise are just a few of the revenue streams he could tap into.

Whether it’s hosting basketball clinics, attending charity events, or doing meet-and-greets, athletes can make a pretty penny from personal appearances. Lively’s got the rising star status that will easily allow him to command high fees for these kinds of gigs.

Merchandise is another potential goldmine. As Lively’s brand grows, we could see him drop his own line of signature gear, apparel, or even exclusive content. NBA players often build out personal merchandise collections, and there’s no reason Lively couldn’t jump on that trend. He could even expand into other ventures, like real estate, fashion, or tech startups, just like some of the NBA’s biggest names.

Lively’s financial future is looking pretty damn good, and the best part? It’s only going to improve. As he gets more playing time and starts contributing more on the court, his value is only going to rise. More games mean more performance bonuses, more team incentives, and—of course—more endorsement opportunities.

The financial potential here is massive. Between his NBA earnings, endorsement deals, social media partnerships, and business ventures, Lively’s net worth could easily hit the tens of millions in the next 10 years. Add in his marketability and the fact that he’s got a bright future as a key player for the Dallas Mavericks, and you’re looking at a financial powerhouse in the making.

Dereck Lively II’s net worth may still be in its early stages, but it’s clear that he’s on the fast track to building something significant. With a lucrative rookie contract, potential multi-million-dollar endorsement deals, and opportunities to expand his personal brand, the future looks bright for this young star.

Lively’s career is just getting started, and both his on-court success and off-court ventures are setting him up for massive paydays. Keep an eye on this guy, because if his basketball career is anything like his financial future, it’s about to skyrocket.