One of my biggest wish for athletes is that they have a transition plan for life after sports. Generally I know it’s not something most want to think about. Most have been playing the game since elementary school and the lifestyle – practice, watching film, etc – is ingrained in their DNA. But as Charles Barkley frequently points out, “father time is undefeated.” Which means at some point you’re going to have to turn your sneakers in and transition to a life off the field or court.
If you’re an NBA player, before you make that final decision, you can always go play overseas. That’s what Gilbert Arenas is doing now and he seems to be happy with the choice. Check out what he recently shared with SLAM:
SLAM: So do you have long-term plans in China? What do you see for yourself in the future here?
GA: 32 games a year. Maximum 36 minutes. That’s all I need at this point in my career. So as long as China teams want me, I’ll be here.
SLAM: Do you have any plans or hopes to tryout with the NBA again?
GA: Nah! [Shakes head vehemently] Because after this season I can enjoy my family. You know my kids are getting older. Being in the NBA, you don’t really get to enjoy your family life because you’re always on the road, you’re always gone. So, no. After this season will be the first time I’ll get to be with my kids for a long period of time
Life playing for an overseas team isn’t anywhere near as glamours as playing in the NBA. But you’re still being paid to play the game you love. And for someone like Gil, who was a victim of the amnesty clause. You’re still collecting NBA coins. The Magic still owe Arenas about $42 million over the next two seasons.
Cash out!
