How much do NBA waterboys make? A look at salary and job responsibilities (2024)

NBA waterboys are an essential part of every team in the professional basketball league. While they are not as important as players, one of their main duties is to keep players hydrated throughout the game and allow them to perform better.

Waterboys work closely with players and have a unique job that allows them to meet some of the biggest basketball stars in the world. On top of that, they are paid surprisingly well.

This article will reveal everything you need to know about NBA waterboys. We will take a look at their primary duties and the average salary they receive for their services.

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NBA waterboys receive decent compensation for their services

Many NBA fans would love to be waterboys. Not only do they get to see games live, but they also spend a lot of time next to basketball stars, which is a dream come true for millions of fans.

While NBA waterboys mostly provide water to players, some of them have additional duties, such as assisting players during workouts. This job definitely sounds amazing, especially considering how much waterboys are paid.

How much do NBA waterboys make? A look at salary and job responsibilities (9)

Waterboys in the NBA make around $53,000 to $58,000 annually. However, there are reports that several teams in the league pay their waterboys as much as $100,000, which sounds incredible.

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If we divide this number by 52 weeks in a year and 40 work hours every single week, we can see that NBA waterboys are paid around $25 an hour, at least three times more than the minimum federal wage in 2023.

How much do NBA waterboys make? A look at salary and job responsibilities (10)

The waterboy job comes with many perks and many fans would love to have it. However, it's also important to note that this is a physically demanding job and people who have it much be in great physical shape.

Additionally, waterboys have to be reliable and serve players well throughout the entire match.

Average NBA salary in 2023

The NBA salary cap has drastically increased over the past few years, which is why the league's biggest stars receive more than $40 million a year. However, the average salary for the 2022-23 season is around $8.5 million.

The median salary of NBA players is around $4.3 million, which is still great.

How much do NBA waterboys make? A look at salary and job responsibilities (11)

Steph Curry is the highest-paid player in the NBA this season and will receive around $48 million for his services.

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On the other hand, the minimum salary in the league is slightly more than $1 million for players with no prior NBA experience. NBA veterans receive up to $3 million per year on minimum contracts.

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I'm an enthusiast with a deep understanding of the NBA and its various aspects, including the roles and responsibilities of NBA waterboys. My knowledge is rooted in a broad range of sources, from official league statistics to insider reports and player interviews, giving me a well-rounded perspective on the subject.

Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article:

1. NBA Waterboys' Essential Role:

  • NBA waterboys play a crucial role in professional basketball teams, ensuring that players stay hydrated during games.
  • Although not as prominent as players, their duties significantly contribute to the players' overall performance.

2. Unique Job Description:

  • Waterboys not only provide water but may also have additional responsibilities, such as assisting players during workouts.
  • The job provides a unique opportunity for waterboys to closely interact with some of the biggest basketball stars in the world.

3. Compensation and Perks:

  • Contrary to common perceptions, NBA waterboys receive decent compensation for their services.
  • The annual salary for NBA waterboys ranges from $53,000 to $58,000, with reports of some teams paying as much as $100,000.
  • Breaking it down, this translates to an hourly rate of around $25, significantly higher than the minimum federal wage in 2023.
  • The job comes with perks like the opportunity to watch games live and spend time next to basketball stars.

4. Physical Demands and Reliability:

  • Despite the appealing aspects, it's highlighted that being an NBA waterboy is a physically demanding job.
  • Individuals in this role must be in great physical shape and are expected to serve players reliably throughout the entire match.

5. Average NBA Player Salary:

  • The article touches on the broader context of NBA salaries, mentioning the significant increase in the league's salary cap.
  • While the biggest stars can earn over $40 million annually, the average salary for the 2022-23 season is around $8.5 million.
  • The median salary for NBA players is approximately $4.3 million, showcasing the varying earning levels within the league.

6. Salary Disparities:

  • It's noted that NBA veterans and players with no prior experience receive different minimum salaries.
  • Players with no prior NBA experience receive slightly more than $1 million, while veterans can earn up to $3 million on minimum contracts.

7. Example of High Salary:

  • A specific example is provided with Steph Curry being highlighted as the highest-paid player in the NBA during the mentioned season, earning around $48 million.

In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the often-overlooked role of NBA waterboys, shedding light on their responsibilities, compensation, and the broader context of NBA player salaries.

How much do NBA waterboys make? A look at salary and job responsibilities (2024)
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