On The TunneySide of Sports December 1, 2018 #722 Up next… “One and Done” – Gone?
After further review… The powers-that-be of the National Basketball Association decided several years ago to deny talented high school basketball players entry into the NBA draft until they either stayed out one year or were 19 years-of-age or attended college for one year. Well, that one and done is now – about to be done! The NBA is replacing it with the “G” league!
In its infinite wisdom the NBA has now enhanced the “G” league. It was originally called the “D” (for development) league. The NBA is offering a talented player, just out of high school, to play in the “G” league for – wait-for-it –$125,000 for one-year! One hundred twenty-five large! If you are thinking about being an agent for a player who’s qualified, starting base is $125,000.
My talent graduating from Alhambra High School (CA.) wouldn’t have qualified me. I chose Occidental College (CA) on the basis that my 4 years would earn a bachelor’s degree, a teaching credential, and a major where I could follow my coaching dream. OXY also provided me an opportunity to play at the collegiate level, although not Division One, but play I did. The NBA was never an opportunity for me, and in the 1950s it had not attained the fame nor financial level of today. I have been a staunch advocate of the student-athlete concept stressing that one goes to college as a student first and participates on an athletic T*E*A*M after classes. Although I have been in the minority for many years, I still believe that — but losing ground fast.
I’ve also been an advocate of a player not being eligible for professional sports until he has graduated – normally 4 years, although many can earn a diploma in three years. So now, the “G” league of the NBA allows–in a player who does not go to college. I’m okay with that – believing college is not for everyone. Some may take up a trade after high school. Of further concern is the recruitment of an athlete in his high school years for the “G” league – think LeBron or Koby! BTW, do you know what the “G” stands for? Gatorade! Hmmm! Money talks!
Will you log-in your thoughts about players becoming professional athletes as teen-agers?
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –
Christmas Gifts For The Ardent Sports Fans!
Get 4 books authored by Jim Tunney, 1 DVD and Jim Tunney’s Bobblehead for the low price of $59 plus $14 Priority Mail Shipping (USA only) while supplies last.
Keep the entire bundle for yourself or give the individual items as gifts this holiday season.
If you would like this bundle shipped outside of the USA please contact Jim at jim@jimtunney.com for a shipping quote.
Buy Now
To contact Jim, go to JimTunney.com or email Jim@JimTunney.com.
Jim’s books are full of inspiration and interesting stories. Please visit his online store to learn more.
Be sure to get Jim’s book ‘Another 101 Best of TunneySide of Sports’ by clicking this link or using the email above to contact Jim directly.
These TunneySides take issues from real-life situations and relate them as inspiration for the betterment of others.
Jim is available for speaking engagements on leadership and T*E*A*M Building. His books are available for $20 which includes shipping and tax. The Tunney Bobblehead is available for $30. Please visit JimTunney.com. Thank you!
