According to Forbes, LeBron James joins Michael Jordan as the only two NBA players to make it into billionaire territory, but James did something Jordan didn’t. He got it while still in the league.

Arguably the best basketball player in the world, James amassed his wealth through diversification: endorsement deals with Nike Inc 

NKE

And others, coupled with his 2% stake in the Liverpool F.C. (soccer club), his investment in Blaze Pizza (he owns 19 separate locations), and of course his massive NBA salary.

Though by no means is James stingy when it comes to giving back: his LeBron James Family Foundation has raised 

And given a whopping $100 million to at least seven foundations, supporting at least 12 causes.

Some of those include granting four-year scholarships to students at the college in his hometown, the ONExONE organization that supports students in struggling school districts

And the $20 million he pledged to build the “I Promise School” in Akron, Ohio, to improve educational institutions where he grew up.

While “King James’” contributions to society may seem like a tough thing to match, these other athletic superstars make great company.

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