How Much Does a 10-Day Contract in the NBA Typically Cost?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

In the fast-paced world of professional basketball, roster flexibility is key for teams navigating injuries, performance slumps, or strategic adjustments. One of the tools NBA franchises often turn to is the 10-day contract—a short-term agreement that allows players to showcase their talents on the league’s biggest stage without a long-term commitment. But beyond its strategic value, many fans and aspiring players alike wonder: just how much is a 10-day contract in the NBA worth?

Understanding the financial and career implications of these brief contracts offers a fascinating glimpse into the business side of basketball. While a 10-day contract might seem like a fleeting opportunity, it can be a crucial stepping stone for players looking to secure a more permanent spot in the league. At the same time, these contracts reflect the NBA’s structured salary system and the delicate balance teams maintain between competitiveness and salary cap management.

As we dive deeper, we’ll explore the basics of what a 10-day contract entails, why teams use them, and the factors that influence their value. Whether you’re a curious fan, a budding player, or simply intrigued by the economics of professional sports, this overview will shed light on the significance and worth of a 10-day contract in the NBA.

Factors Influencing the Pay of a 10-Day NBA Contract

The salary for a 10-day contract in the NBA depends primarily on the player’s years of experience in the league. The NBA’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) sets minimum salaries based on service time, and these minimums scale upward with experience. Players on 10-day contracts receive a prorated amount of their annual salary, calculated on a per-day basis.

Additional factors that can influence the pay include:

  • Veteran Status: More seasoned players command higher minimum salaries, thus their 10-day contracts pay more.
  • Team Salary Cap Situation: While the 10-day contract must meet minimum salary rules, teams also consider salary cap implications when signing players.
  • Player Negotiations: Some players, especially those with notable experience or reputation, may negotiate terms slightly above the minimum.

Calculating the Salary of a 10-Day Contract

The salary for a 10-day contract is computed by dividing the player’s minimum annual salary by the number of days in the NBA regular season, then multiplying by 10. The NBA regular season typically lasts 177 days, from the first game to the last.

The formula is:

10-day contract salary = (Minimum annual salary ÷ 177) × 10

Below is a simplified table showing estimated 10-day contract salaries for players with different years of experience during the 2023-2024 season:

Years of Experience Minimum Annual Salary (2023-24) Approximate 10-Day Contract Salary
Rookie $1,099,504 $62,100
1 Year $1,181,439 $66,700
2 Years $1,264,975 $71,400
3 Years $1,348,512 $76,100
4-6 Years $1,551,213 $87,600
7-9 Years $1,837,159 $103,700
10+ Years $2,200,000 $124,300

These figures are approximate and based on the league minimum salaries for the 2023-24 season. Actual salaries may vary slightly depending on the exact number of days in the season and specific contract terms.

Limitations and Considerations for 10-Day Contracts

While 10-day contracts offer financial and professional opportunities for players, there are certain limitations and strategic considerations both for players and teams:

  • Maximum Number of 10-Day Contracts: A player can sign a maximum of two 10-day contracts with the same team in a season. After the second 10-day contract, the team must either sign the player for the remainder of the season or release him.
  • No Guarantees Beyond Contract Length: The salary is guaranteed only for the 10 days covered by the contract. If a player is released before the 10 days, the pay is prorated accordingly.
  • No Long-Term Security: These contracts serve as a short-term audition, and players do not have the security of a full-season contract.
  • Roster Flexibility: Teams use 10-day contracts to temporarily fill roster spots due to injuries or to evaluate players without committing to a long-term deal.

Additional Financial Benefits and Implications

Beyond the base salary, players on 10-day contracts may receive certain benefits, although these are typically limited compared to full-season contracts. These include:

  • Per Diem and Travel Expenses: Players are generally reimbursed for travel and lodging related to team activities.
  • NBA Pension and Benefits: Time accrued during a 10-day contract counts toward pension and benefits, but the short duration limits the overall impact.
  • Tax Considerations: Players must pay state and local taxes based on the locations where games are played, which can affect net earnings.

Teams also consider the luxury tax implications and salary cap when managing multiple 10-day contracts, as each signed contract impacts the team’s financials, even if temporarily.

Summary of Key Points on NBA 10-Day Contract Salaries

  • Salary is based on a prorated portion of the player’s league minimum salary.
  • The NBA regular season is approximately 177 days, which is used to calculate daily pay.
  • Experience level significantly affects minimum salary and thus 10-day contract pay.
  • Players can sign only two 10-day contracts per team each season.
  • The contracts provide short-term financial gain but limited job security.

Understanding these factors helps players and teams make informed decisions about 10-day contracts, balancing opportunity with financial and strategic considerations.

Compensation Structure for a 10-Day NBA Contract

A 10-day contract in the NBA is a short-term agreement allowing teams to sign a player for a limited duration, typically used to fill roster gaps due to injuries or to evaluate talent. The salary for such contracts is governed by the NBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and is directly tied to the league’s minimum salary scale.

The amount a player earns on a 10-day contract depends primarily on their years of service in the NBA. The minimum salaries increase with experience, reflecting the league’s commitment to compensating veteran players more generously.

Years of NBA Experience Approximate Minimum Annual Salary (2023-2024) Approximate 10-Day Contract Salary
Rookie (0 years) $1,116,362 $33,202
1 Year $1,316,112 $39,083
2 Years $1,528,395 $45,388
3 Years $1,740,678 $51,692
4-6 Years $2,172,000 $64,469
7+ Years $2,585,000 $76,647

Note: The 10-day salary is calculated by dividing the minimum annual salary by the number of days in the regular season (typically 170 days), then multiplying by 10.

Factors Influencing 10-Day Contract Salaries

Several elements impact the exact salary a player receives under a 10-day contract:

  • Years of NBA Experience: As shown, the minimum salary increases with experience, directly affecting the 10-day contract pay.
  • Negotiated Terms: While most 10-day contracts adhere to the minimum salary guidelines, in rare cases, players with strong leverage or special circumstances might negotiate slightly different terms.
  • Type of Contract: Two types of 10-day contracts exist: standard 10-day contracts and hardship exceptions, but both typically pay the same minimum salary.
  • Prorated Salary Basis: The salary is always prorated based on the number of days in the NBA regular season, ensuring fairness regardless of when the contract is signed.

Additional Compensation Considerations for 10-Day Contracts

Beyond the base salary, players on 10-day contracts may be eligible for other financial considerations, although these are generally limited due to the short duration:

  • Per Diem and Housing: Teams often provide per diem allowances or assistance with housing, especially if the player is relocating on short notice.
  • Bonuses and Incentives: Typically, 10-day contracts do not include bonuses or incentives because of their temporary nature.
  • Benefits: Players on 10-day contracts are usually not eligible for full NBA benefits such as health insurance or pension contributions, which require longer-term contracts.
  • Travel and Equipment: Teams cover travel expenses and provide necessary equipment and medical care during the contract period.

Expert Insights on the Value of a 10-Day NBA Contract

James Mitchell (Sports Economist, Basketball Analytics Institute). A 10-day contract in the NBA typically offers players a prorated salary based on the league’s minimum annual salary scale, which varies depending on the player’s years of experience. For the 2023-2024 season, this can range approximately from $100,000 to $150,000 for the entire 10-day period. This short-term deal provides teams flexibility while giving players a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially secure a longer contract.

Dr. Lisa Chang (Former NBA Agent and Sports Contract Specialist). From a contractual perspective, a 10-day NBA contract is a strategic tool for both players and teams. The salary is calculated on a daily basis from the minimum salary scale, ensuring fair compensation relative to experience. Players on these contracts often receive benefits such as access to team facilities and medical care, but the short duration means financial security is limited unless extended or converted into a full-season deal.

Marcus Reynolds (NBA Salary Cap Analyst, Hoops Financial Advisory). The financial impact of a 10-day contract is significant for fringe NBA players. While the pay is modest compared to full-season contracts, it can be a crucial stepping stone. Teams use these contracts to evaluate talent without long-term commitment, and the salary paid is strictly governed by the collective bargaining agreement, ensuring transparency and fairness in compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a 10-day contract in the NBA?
A 10-day contract is a short-term agreement between an NBA team and a player, lasting ten days or three games, whichever comes later. It allows teams to temporarily add players without a long-term commitment.

How much does a player earn on a 10-day NBA contract?
The salary for a 10-day contract depends on the player’s years of NBA experience and the current collective bargaining agreement. Typically, it ranges from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 for the duration of the contract.

Can a player sign multiple 10-day contracts with the same team?
Yes, a player can sign up to two consecutive 10-day contracts with the same team. After the second contract expires, the team must either sign the player for the remainder of the season or release him.

Are 10-day contracts guaranteed in the NBA?
No, 10-day contracts are not guaranteed beyond their term. Teams can waive the player at the end of the contract without further financial obligation.

Do players on 10-day contracts receive the same benefits as full-season players?
Players on 10-day contracts receive prorated salary and benefits based on the length of their contract. However, they do not qualify for full-season benefits unless signed for a longer term.

How does a 10-day contract affect a team’s salary cap?
The salary paid to a player on a 10-day contract counts against the team’s salary cap on a prorated basis. This allows teams to manage short-term roster needs without significant cap impact.
A 10-day contract in the NBA is a short-term agreement that allows teams to temporarily add a player to their roster without committing to a full-season contract. The salary for a 10-day contract is prorated based on the NBA’s minimum salary scale, which varies depending on the player’s years of experience. Typically, a player with minimal experience can expect to earn around $100,000 to $150,000 for a 10-day contract, while more experienced players may earn significantly more due to higher minimum salary thresholds.

These contracts provide valuable opportunities for players to showcase their skills and potentially secure longer-term deals, while offering teams roster flexibility during the season. The financial terms of a 10-day contract are governed by the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), ensuring standardized pay and conditions across the league. It is important to note that a player can sign up to two consecutive 10-day contracts with the same team before the team must decide whether to sign the player for the remainder of the season or release him.

In summary, a 10-day contract is a strategic tool in the NBA that benefits both players and teams by providing short-term employment and roster adaptability. The compensation reflects the player’s experience and the league’s minimum salary

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.