Role models

While watching David Zirin, he talks about players (specifically LeBrick James) having goals that include being a world-wide icon while being one of the most successful (money wise) athlete ever. Going into details, he makes a great point that those two do not really intertwine; its either you reach international fame through your influential yet controversial words or you keep your mouth shut and make billions. That begs the question: are athletes, or even coaches, truly fit to be role models? It appears as though athletes today are more like businessmen and play for the money. Although this was a long time ago, Charles Barkley's infamous quote, "I am not a role model" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8vh2MwXZ6o) would still fit in today's sports world. Despite the NBA advertising NBA cares and players hosting basketball camps for younger children, it still appears fake and forced. The only recent basketball player that I can think of that has made a difference in around the world is Dikembe Mutombo, a retired player and much-respected philanthropist. There are a lot of players willing to do community work and local charity but how many of them would risk their health, possibly reputation or endorsements to help those in need around the world? Once athletes retire, they seem to disappear to live a private life or do sports analysis on ESPN; only a few continue doing philanthropy or charity. Even coaches who so many revere and respect in sports, turn out to make horrible decisions. Just look at the recent Penn state or Syracuse controversy. For me, I just watch sports for the entertainment and I ignore anything irrelevant. I'm happy that the NBA cares program exists as it benefits a lot of people but how many players would contribute if it did not exist? To me, I don't expect many. Maybe I'm just being pessimistic about this or maybe I'm really uninformed and ignorant but that's just what I see.

Marshal Truong

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