In terms of global interest and huge money not much comes close to matching the NBA. Basketball is colossal in the USA and the players are idolised by millions, giving them the type of status that earns the highest wages. Among the items that the NBA stars like to spend their cash on are high quality vehicles and these are some select examples.
Jason Kidd
Jason Kidd of the New York Knicks has built up a reputation as one of the NBA’s most effective centers during his career. The 39-year-old ex-Dallas Mavericks and New Jersey Nets star drove a 2010 Escalade before making the huge mistake of driving while under the influence in July 2012. Kidd had been drinking at a fundraising event in East Hampton and caused an astonishing amount of damage to the vehicle after colliding with a pole.
Dwyane Wade
31-year-old Miami Heat standout Dwyane Wade earned a salary well in excess of $15,000,000 during the 2011/12 NBA season but he did not even have to pay for his 2012 McLaren MP4-12C. The $230,000 car was given to him for his 30th birthday as part of his ambassadorial role for a local dealership. The world-class shooting / point guard has owned a wide selection of vehicles in the past including a bright blue Escalade and Mercedes SLR. D-Wade has won two NBA championships with the Heat as well as gaining some attention for his relationship with actress Gabrielle Union.
Shaquille O’Neal
Although his rap career was less successful there is no doubt that Shaquille O’Neal was a Superman on the court. He took this nickname into the cars he owned by having the logo incorporated into the grille and interior of his Cadillac. The former center for the Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers has also driven a Lamborghini Gallardo amongst others and is an avid car collector. Whichever vehicle Shaq decides to purchase next it is vital that it can handle his considerable frame at 7 foot 1 and 23 stone.
James Harden
One of the NBA’s up-and-coming players, Houston Rockets’ James Harden played in his first All-Star Game in 2013 and he has matched his rising status with the vehicles he has owned. The 23-year-old former Oklahoma City Thunder shooting guard has had a Mercedes-Benz S550, Range Rover Sport and Chevrolet Camaro in his collection. Harden was also part of the US national team who won Gold at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
David Fearns enjoys playing and watching basketball as well as collecting cars when his finances allow. He goes to eurocarparts.com for his vehicle parts.