How Much Do NBA Mascots Make
According to Boardroom TV, a media network founded by Kevin Durant and Rich Kleiman, the average salary for an NBA mascot is around $60,000 per year.
When we think of the National Basketball Association (NBA), our minds often drift to the high-flying athletes, the thrilling games, and the multi-million dollar contracts. However, there's another group of performers who play a crucial role in the NBA experience - the mascots. These energetic characters bring joy, laughter, and spirit to every game, but have you ever wondered how much they earn for their entertaining performances?
Average Salary of NBA Mascots
According to Boardroom TV, a media network founded by Kevin Durant and Rich Kleiman, the average salary for an NBA mascot is around $60,000 per year. This figure may seem modest compared to the astronomical salaries of NBA players, but it's worth noting that this is just the average. Some mascots earn significantly more.
The High Earners
Rocky, the mascot of the Denver Nuggets, tops the list of highest-paid NBA mascots with an impressive annual salary of $625,000. This mountain lion mascot earns ten times the average salary of his peers. Following closely behind Rocky is Harry the Hawk, the mascot for the Atlanta Hawks, who reportedly earns $600,000 annually.
How Do NBA Mascots Earn Their Income?
Mascots typically start off on a base salary of about $25,000 for home games, with 41 regular season games guaranteed. However, their income doesn't stop there. Mascots also earn additional amounts per hour for events and appearances outside the arena and on game days. For instance, Harry The Hawk charges $500 per hour for such appearances.
Becoming an NBA Mascot
Becoming an NBA mascot requires more than just a love for the game and a knack for entertaining crowds. The primary qualifications for this position are a high school diploma or GED certificate, though college graduates are often preferred. Professional teams usually expect their mascots to have several years of experience in the role. The process can be competitive and may require applicants to fill out an application, take part in a formal interview, and engage in performances and skits.
Conclusion
While being an NBA mascot might not be the first profession that comes to mind when thinking of lucrative jobs, it's clear that there's potential for a decent income in this line of work. From the average salary to the high earners like Rocky and Harry the Hawk, these mascots are making a significant contribution to the NBA experience - and they're being rewarded for it. So, next time you watch an NBA game, spare a thought for the hard-working mascots who help make each game a memorable event.