Anthony Davis explains how payments work for NBA players

The allegations that the Los Angeles Clippers circumvented the salary cap with Kawhi Leonard have led to some questions about how NBA players get paid, and Anthony Davis actually shared some insight into that last year.

The Clippers are being investigated by the NBA after evidenced was uncovered that suggests they funneled money to Leonard via a phony endorsement deal with a tree-planting company. All of the discussion surrounding the scandal led to some comments from Davis resurfacing.

During a June 2024 appearance on the “Join the Lobby” podcast, Davis was asked what the payment structure is like for NBA players. He said players get paid on the 1st and 15th of each month like most professions, but they get to choose whether they want their salary spread out over six months or a full year.

“You get to decide. You don’t get to decide from a standpoint of when you’re getting paid. Obviously, the 1st and 15th (of the month) just like every other job, but you get to decide if you want all your money in 12 months or six months,” Davis said.

Davis added that he is unsure if players are even aware that they can receive their year’s salary in six months. He said whether that is a good idea or not depends on the player’s spending habits.

“It depends on who you are and how you are financially. Are you stable enough to go the entire summer without getting a check, or do you need to get money because you spend a lot of money?” Davis said. “Obviously, coming in, I think a lot of guys go 12 months. But if you’re older and you’re financially stable and you got bread, I’m cool for the summer time. Give me all my money.”