Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura candidly expressed the motivation behind competing for the NBA Cup during a recent media session. Hachimura made headlines with his straightforward remark, stating, "We just want the money." This lighthearted comment reflects the competitive spirit and financial incentive surrounding the NBA Cup.
Hachimura elaborated on the team's desire to win, indicating that their ambition has increased since last season when the Lakers captured the inaugural In-Season Tournament title, thereby securing a prize of $500,000 per player. With the rebranding of the tournament to the NBA Cup, the winning team will now receive a slightly increased payout of $514,970 per player. Despite the average NBA salary being significantly higher at $11,185,262 and the median salary at $5,780,074.50, the potential for players to earn an extra half million dollars is not overlooked.
Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton, who has a contract worth $93 million, also commented on the financial aspect, stating, "I'm sure the richest guy in the world would be happy to get $500,000." Middleton pointed out the collective excitement among players regarding the opportunity for additional earnings as the NBA Cup progresses. Moreover, it is notable that players on the NBA minimum salary scale would see a substantial percentage increase in pay if their team emerges victorious. Meanwhile, teams that do not make it past the quarterfinals still receive $51,497 per player, with semifinal losers earning $102,994 and the runners-up of the NBA Cup final taking home $205,988. The Lakers are set to begin their title defense on Friday with a road game against the San Antonio Spurs, joined in their group by the Utah Jazz, Phoenix Suns, and Oklahoma Thunder.
