NBA holds court on athlete income

NBA lockout causes fans to miss their favorite pastime

Lions, Tigers…wait, whatever happened to the NBA?

Basketball fans may be left to find another past time now that NBA commissioner David Stern has canceled the first two weeks of the regular NBA season.

Canceling all scheduled games through Nov. 14 will be the NBA’s first stop in work since the reduction of the 1998-99 season to 50 games.

Among the many issues discussed by NBA owners and players is the split of basketball-related income (BRI). Last year, players earned a 57 percent (BRI) that NBA analysts estimate will never reach that percentage again. Stern and NBA owners initially approached players to discuss a 50-50 split that was eventually rejected.

Since when did a 50-50 split of a $4 billion business become such a disputable reduction in income?

With Michigan teachers earning an estimated $60,000 yearly and nursing salaries at $40,000, I find it hard to see Lebron James’ $80 million salary as underpayment for a career most would consider a playground hobby.

I agree athletes work very hard to achieve their stats. However, I also agree the love of the game should be the drawing force that brings an athlete to the court and such a dispute shouldn’t leave fans without their favorite past time.

Remember the 2011 NFL lockout? That’s because NFL owners were able to come to a decision that allowed fans to continue enjoying the sport.

As both sides hold firm to the belief they have a legitimate argument, cities such as Orlando that depend on basketball season are losing fans and interest to the idea the NBA season may be lost.

With Lebron James twittering interest of joining the NFL, San Antonio Spur Tony Parker playing in France for $1,995 a month and fans frustrated, It seems no one is benefiting from the lockout.

If you like watching basketball, you may find yourself channel surfing through television reruns until the NBA can put away financial differences and get back to the sport so many enjoy.