Coming from nothing to having millions of dollars is quite the transition and guys like Antoine Walker are examples of how not to handle it. Walker had a successful 12-year NBA career, he was a three-time all-star, won a NBA title and made $108 million.
However, Walker had to file for bankruptcy in 2010 and was forced to sell his championship ring.
“I thought I was set for the rest of my life. My story is sad. It’s sad to see other guys work so hard throughout their life — and then they just lose it in two or three years.”I created a very expensive lifestyle. That’s how you lose your wealth real bad at the beginning.”
Walker grew up in Chicago and after he started making all of this money, it was difficult for him to say no to family members and childhood friends.
“I gave them whatever they wanted and spoiled them. You can’t do that. It ended up being an open ATM throughout my career.”
I hope this story motivates current and future NBA players to be smart with their money.