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Run, Shoot, Catch, Swing, Hit, Jump, Sink all the way to the bank. Sports Illustrated Lists The Top 50 Highest-Earning American Athletes Sports Illustrated has done a lil’ research and they know who’s REALLY ridin’ around and gettin’ it, and who ain’t got no money in the bank… This year’s list is unique for a couple more reasons. NBA players, who have historically claimed more spots in the Fortunate 50 than any other group, had their salaries slashed by nearly 20 percent this season because of the 66-game schedule brought on by the lockout of 2011. Our findings consisted solely of salary, winnings, bonuses, endorsements and appearance fees. We consulted players’ associations, tour records, agents and news reports. Our endorsement estimates for 2012 came from Burns Entertainment & Sports Marketing, other sports-marketing executives and analysts, and agents. Salary figures were based on current or most recently completed seasons (July 1 for the NFL, which is why Drew Brees, who just signed a $100 million deal last Friday, isn’t on the list). For winnings-based sports (auto racing, golf, tennis), we used the 2011 calendar year. Boxing purses are from June 2011 through May 2012. Candidates for the U.S. 50 had to be American citizens and currently active in their sports. Being that the list is so long, we’re gonna bring you the top 15. There is a LOT of money in this convo… Hit the flipper to peep the list. Images via WENN/SplashNews/AP

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Making It Rain On Them Hoes: Sports Illustrated Has Released A List Of The Top 50 Highest Paid American Atheles! Find Out Who Is The King Of The Gwapanese! [Pics]