For The Athlete, How Much Is Too Much?

I'd be lying if I said it was not the money. I wouldn't be putting my body through this physical punishment if I was not well paid.
RICK BARRY

Money is great...but sometimes I think that I should be more selective. But then people make you more offers, the kind you would be crazy to turn down.
O. J. SIMPSON

Generally, the foundation of professional sports is no longer loyalty and trust. It is now business and adjustment. I am not happy about that.
JULIUS ERVING

For most people...the years between 35 and 55 are the most productive ones, but not for athletes. They're slipping over the edge.
FRAN TARKENTON

I don't want my whole life to be dependent on tennis. I don't want it to be a business. To me it's still a sport, a healthy activity and fun.
CHRIS EVERT

I just love to play. I don't know anybody that really produces who doesn't think that way. Guys who play just for the money aren't around long.
RANDY RASMUSSEN

No athlete is worth the money he is getting, including me.
—ELVIN HAYES, pro basketball player

Did the big money affect me? I'd say a little bit. Like, I was a good, hardworking hockey player one year, and then after I got the million, I rolled over and went to sleep.
—DEREK SANDERSON, former pro hockey player

Many players are now more concerned about protecting their earning power than performing. So the quality of basketball is not what it used to be. The fans pay an inflated price for a tarnished product—all because of greed.
—WAYNE EMBRY, former pro basketball player and executive

Players have lost all loyalty to a club, to their teammates and perhaps even to themselves.
—BUZZIE BAVASI, baseball executive