Other than people who literally live under a rock, the sports world was stunned to find out about LeBron James signing with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Adding James to an already elite core of Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid makes a fifth ring more likely than ever for James.
The other wrinkle that’s most interesting is the number of years on the deal. A two-year deal signifies that James won’t retire this year. How does this relate to the SEC? Well, the dollar amount on the deal is comparable to a certain SEC star.
Kentucky’s Milan Momcilovic Set to Earn More than LeBron James
Mar 27, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Milan Momcilovic (22) reacts in the first half against the Tennessee Volunteers. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
One of the biggest transfers in college basketball. Milan Momcilovic decided to stay in college instead of going to the NBA. Momcilovic was exceptional at Iowa State. The 6’8 forward posted 16.9 points per game on just over 50% shooting.
The most impressive feat of Momcilovic’s is the 48.7% from the three-point range. One of the best shooters in the country. With Momcilovic being so sought after in the portal, a huge price tag is attached to him.
After a stellar year, Momcilovic is set to earn roughly $6 million this upcoming year after transferring to Kentucky. That number trumps what James is set to earn with the Sixers, which is slated to be $3.88 million.
This shows just how crazy of an era we’re in with college sports. The context has to be included, though; if James wanted to, he could earn more than $4 million annually in the NBA.
Momcilovic likely will make more this year in college than he will in his first year of his NBA contract next season.
