A Drop in the Bucket

For those who believe NBA players are overpaid, lazy, unmotivated jerks, I have to say that the ratio is probably about the same percentage as it is at anyone’s workplace.

Except on a smaller scale.

But for those who think players do it only for the money, consider this: If the Jazz win the NBA title this year (ha-ha!), each of the 15 roster players could receive approximately $129,869. That’s if you divide the playoff money up among players only. But if you add another 10 coaches, trainers, etc., that figures out to about $78,000 per person.

That’s great money to real people. It may even be a lot for Paul Millsap, whom the Jazz signed for the bargain basement price of $800,000 this year. But for others…no. For example, Andre Kirilenko earns nearly $184,000 a GAME.

What does he need another $78,000 for — parking?

A title helps players gain endorsement deals, but there aren’t a lot of those out there.

So next time you see someone winning a championship, remember, it’s really not all about the money. It’s about the desire. I know, it’s a shopworn phrase. But in this case, it’s true.