Last Updated on January 14, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake

Gary Payton had a long and storied NBA career, playing for several teams. Here’s a breakdown of his contract history:

1. Seattle SuperSonics (1990–2003)

  • Years: 1990–2003
  • Initial Contract: Payton was selected by the Seattle SuperSonics with the 2nd overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft. He signed his rookie contract, which is standard for a second-overall pick.
  • Subsequent Extensions: Over the years, Payton negotiated multiple contracts with the Sonics, eventually becoming the team’s franchise player.
  • Notable Contract: In 1998, Payton signed a 7-year, $86 million contract extension with the SuperSonics, one of the most lucrative contracts of the era at that time.

2. Milwaukee Bucks (2003–2004)

  • Contract Details: After spending 13 seasons with the Sonics, Payton was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in a three-team trade in February 2003.
  • Contract: He had one remaining year on his contract with the Sonics that he finished with Milwaukee, earning approximately $4.9 million for that season.

3. Los Angeles Lakers (2004–2005)

  • Contract Details: Payton signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2004 for the 2004–2005 season.
  • Contract Value: He agreed to a one-year deal worth about $4.9 million.
  • Purpose: The Lakers signed Payton as they sought an experienced player to contribute to their pursuit of an NBA title, which they eventually won.

4. Boston Celtics (2005–2006)

  • Contract Details: After one year with the Lakers, Payton signed with the Boston Celtics in the summer of 2005 for a 1-year, $5.4 million deal.
  • Purpose: Payton aimed to secure another shot at an NBA championship and bring leadership to a Celtics team that was in transition.
  • End of Career: Payton retired from the Celtics after the 2005–06 season.

5. Miami Heat (2005–2006)

  • Contract: Payton signed a one-year deal worth about $1.1 million.
  • Outcome: Payton ended his career by winning his only NBA championship with the Miami Heat in 2006 after an incredible run with the Heat and a valuable veteran presence on the court. He played with notable players like Shaquille O’Neal and Dwyane Wade, contributing crucial defense.

Retirement:

Gary Payton retired following the 2006 NBA season after having played a significant role in the Heat’s championship run.