NBA coaching salaries have reached new heights for the 2025–2026 season, with Steve Kerr, head coach of the Golden State Warriors, leading the league as the highest-paid coach.
Kerr earns an estimated $17.5 million (€14.9 million) annually, following a contract extension signed in 2024 that significantly increased his previous earnings. A four-time NBA champion, Kerr stands at the top of a growing financial hierarchy among NBA coaches.
Behind him, Erik Spoelstra (Miami Heat) and Tyronn Lue (Los Angeles Clippers) are tied in second place, each earning around $15 million per year. Both coaches also benefited from major contract extensions in 2024, reflecting the rising market value of elite coaching talent.
The list highlights a broader trend: NBA coaching salaries have surged in recent years. Since 2023, deals such as Monty Williams’ record-breaking contract with the Detroit Pistons have pushed the market upward, with eight coaches now earning $10 million or more annually, compared to just one a few years ago.
However, despite the high salaries, job security remains fragile. Several championship-winning coaches have been dismissed within a short period of their success, underscoring the volatile nature of coaching in the league.
The top 10 highest-paid NBA coaches for the 2025–2026 season are as follows:
- Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors) — $17.5M
- Erik Spoelstra (Miami Heat) — $15M
- Tyronn Lue (Los Angeles Clippers) — $15M
- Doc Rivers (Milwaukee Bucks) — $11M
- Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets) — $11M
- Joe Mazzulla (Boston Celtics) — $11M
- Rick Carlisle (Indiana Pacers) — $11M
- Mike Brown (New York Knicks) — $10M
- Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks) — $9.5M
- JJ Redick (Los Angeles Lakers) — $9M
Overall, the top 10 NBA coaches are set to earn approximately $120 million combined this season, reflecting the growing financial importance of coaching in modern basketball. However, this figure still pales in comparison to player salaries, highlighting the continued imbalance between on-court talent and sideline leadership.