The NBA is known for its electrifying gameplay, iconic athletes, and increasingly wealthy team owners. Each of the league’s teams has an owner with a different background, vision, and approach to management. In 2024, the league will be dominated by a handful of high-profile billionaires. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 richest NBA owners, their fortunes, and the teams they own.

1. Steve Ballmer – LA Clippers ($140 billion)

Steve Ballmer, a former Microsoft CEO, tops the list by a wide margin. With an estimated net worth of $140 billion, he has redefined what it means to be a wealthy sports owner. Ballmer purchased the LA Clippers in 2014 for $2 billion, which was a record at the time. Since then, he has been heavily involved in shaping the Clippers into a premier franchise, leveraging his extensive business experience to elevate the team on and off the court. Ballmer’s investments include a new state-of-the-art arena, Intuit Dome, aimed at solidifying the Clippers’ presence as a major contender in the league. His passion for the game and exuberant courtside demeanor make him one of the most recognizable and admired owners.

2. Dan Gilbert – Cleveland Cavaliers ($27.1 billion)

Dan Gilbert, the founder of Quicken Loans (now Rocket Mortgage), ranks second with a net worth of $27.1 billion. Gilbert purchased the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2005 and was instrumental in building the championship-winning team led by LeBron James in 2016. Despite James leaving the Cavaliers twice, Gilbert’s commitment to the team and the city of Cleveland is evident through his investments in local infrastructure and community development. He remains dedicated to building a competitive team, focusing on young talents while also providing stable leadership from the ownership level.

3. Stan Kroenke – Denver Nuggets ($16.2 billion)

Stan Kroenke is a sports tycoon with a vast portfolio of teams across different sports. With the Denver Nuggets, his primary goal is to build a sustainable and successful franchise. His net worth is estimated at $16.2 billion, which he has amassed through real estate and sports ownership. Kroenke has overseen a period of remarkable success for the Nuggets, culminating in their first NBA Championship in 2023. His careful management and support of the team’s management have been pivotal in creating a winning culture that puts player development at the forefront.

4. Antony Ressler – Atlanta Hawks ($10.5 billion)

Antony Ressler is the co-founder of private equity firms Ares Management and Apollo Global Management. He purchased the Atlanta Hawks in 2015 and is currently worth $10.5 billion. Ressler has focused on creating a modern, dynamic, and competitive basketball team. Under his ownership, the Hawks have become known for their exciting play style and deep roster. Ressler’s business acumen is evident in the way he has managed the franchise, emphasizing long-term sustainability and success while remaining engaged with the local community.

5. Tilman Fertitta – Houston Rockets ($9.2 billion)

Tilman Fertitta, owner of Landry’s Inc. and a prominent figure in the hospitality industry, acquired the Houston Rockets in 2017 for a then-record $2.2 billion. He is worth $9.2 billion in 2024. Fertitta has faced challenges with the Rockets, particularly during a rebuilding phase, but he has shown a strong commitment to revitalizing the team and bringing a championship back to Houston. His approach is bold, pragmatic, and focused on winning. He continues to explore various strategies to improve the team’s performance and strengthen its reputation.

6. Tom Gores – Detroit Pistons ($9.1 billion)

Tom Gores, founder of Platinum Equity, purchased the Detroit Pistons in 2011. With a fortune of $9.1 billion, Gores has aimed to reinvigorate the Pistons franchise and the city itself. Moving the team back to downtown Detroit and opening a new training facility is part of his efforts to connect the franchise to its fan base. Despite a challenging rebuilding process, Gores is focused on developing young talent and improving the team’s competitive edge. His long-term vision includes strong community engagement, especially through the Detroit Pistons Foundation.

7. Joseph Tsai – Brooklyn Nets ($8.8 billion)

Joseph Tsai, co-founder of Alibaba Group, bought the Brooklyn Nets in 2019. Worth $8.8 billion, he is one of the wealthiest owners in the NBA. Tsai quickly gained popularity among fans for his ambitious vision and deep investment in the team’s success. Despite some rocky periods, Tsai remains committed to building a world-class franchise in Brooklyn, with an eye on player welfare, fan engagement, and global marketing. His ability to balance business and basketball has helped the Nets gain prominence in one of the league’s most competitive markets.

8. Jimmy Haslam – Milwaukee Bucks ($8 billion)

Jimmy Haslam, who gained much of his wealth through Pilot Flying J, acquired a stake in the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023, contributing to his estimated net worth of $8 billion. Haslam, also owner of the NFL’s Cleveland Browns, has a keen interest in sports management. In Milwaukee, he has joined a team already enjoying sustained success. He aims to keep the Bucks competitive by ensuring that the team maintains its solid leadership structure and continuously seeks top talent.

9. Micky Arison – Miami Heat ($7.8 billion)

Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation, bought the Miami Heat in 1995 and is worth $7.8 billion. Under his ownership, the Heat have enjoyed significant success, including three NBA championships. Arison is known for his patience and trust in the team’s management, giving them the freedom to make bold moves while providing the necessary financial backing. This approach has enabled the Heat to remain competitive, thanks to Arison’s strong leadership and his partnership with Pat Riley, the team’s president.

10. Mark Cuban – Dallas Mavericks ($5.4 billion)

Mark Cuban, tech entrepreneur and TV personality, bought the Dallas Mavericks in 2000 and is worth $5.4 billion. Cuban is one of the most vocal and engaged owners in the NBA, often speaking his mind on league issues and advocating for change. He transformed the Mavericks into a powerhouse, delivering a championship in 2011 and turning the franchise into a model for sustainable success. Cuban is passionate about technological innovation, using it to improve player health, fan engagement, and the overall operations of the team.