View the full Brand Finance NBA 2025 report here
New data from Brand Finance reveals that at a total of USD10.6 billion, the NBA’s combined brand value places it roughly on par with the English Premier League (USD10.9 billion) and far ahead of other European soccer competitions such as Spain’s LaLiga (USD5.8 billion) and the German Bundesliga (USD4.5 billion), though still behind the NFL (USD26.5 billion).
Key highlights:
- The Golden State Warriors remain the NBA’s most valuable brand at $1.2 billion despite an 18% brand value decline
- The Los Angeles Lakers hold second place at $973 million, down 9% after consecutive first-round playoff exits
- The New York Knicks climb into third, with brand value up 12% to $720 million
- The Chicago Bulls rise three places to fourth, with brand value up 36% to $616 million – the fastest-growing NBA brand this year
- The Lakers, Bulls, and Celtics are the NBA’s top three strongest brands
Hugo Hensley, Head of Sports Services, Brand Finance, commented:
“The Warriors’ position at the top of the ranking - even in a period of transition - shows how enduring brand equity can outlast on-court cycles. The franchise built a global following and a commercial machine during its dynasty years that continues to deliver value. That long-term brand power is what separates the NBA’s biggest names from the rest of the league.”
Laurence Newell, Managing Director, Americas, Brand Finance, commented:
“While total brand value across the league has eased slightly this year, the NBA remains a global entertainment property. From Shanghai to São Paulo, its teams command cultural relevance that few sports can match. The challenge now is converting that awareness into deeper international engagement and new revenue opportunities.”
