The NBA players are currently locked out by the NBA team owners who are seeking significant changes to the Collective Bargaining Agreement. The common sentiment is that once players begin losing pay checks, they will cave on their desires. But if the Players’ Association can pool together money that can be distributed to players, they might not have to give in. According to union rep Billy Hunter, some stars including Kobe Bryant are willing to loan money to help out their fellow players.
“I know Kobe is intimately involved in interfacing with colleagues and sharing in a pool of revenue to help the others get through this,” Hunter told the LA Times. “Kobe has volunteered to do that in the event others need, he and others are prepared to loan money if necessary.”
If the players actually do this, it will be a nice sign of solidarity, not to mention a wise business move. Some players are going overseas to remain in shape and continue earning money. Many other players are left behind with a lockout to fight, no stream of income, and bills to pay. Having a pool of money will be extremely helpful as they continue to bargain with the owners.
Given that Kobe never gave the Lakers a discount to ease their luxury tax burden, this will be good use of the extra money he’s earned from Jerry Buss.
Chest bump to I am a GM for the quotes
