I've been wondering all week long - sorta on pins and needles....will the Washington Wizards or Gilbert Arenas mess up? Will the Wizards low-ball Arenas as they have low-balled other players in the past? Should the 'Zards offer Arenas the maximum or something reasonable (or as reasonable as a star athlete's salary can be in the 21st Century)? Is Arenas serious about his commitment to winning or just looking to get paid?
Well, if reports are correct 'Agent Zero' will sign a contract worth $111 million over six (6) years. As a lifelong Bullets/Wizards fan I must say I am excited to hear about the decision because it proves that for all his antics and eccentricities, Arenas is worth the money.
In a day and age in which most athletes recognize the limited opportunities they have to make as much money as possible, this guy is obviously concerned about the limited window of opportunity there is to win championships. Regardless of what you think about the Wizards chances of contending for a championship with the current make-up of the team, the fact that Arenas takes less money gives the team a chance to add a piece or two to enhance the possibility of making a 'run'. You have to respect and commend that.
While questions remain about Gilbert's maturity, his knee and possibly even his coachability, what cannot be questioned is his desire to win. Anyone taking less money in this day-and-age for the good of the team is serious about winning. By taking less money than the market allows, Arenas proves that in his world winning is more important than getting paid. That in and of itself proves that this guy is worth the money. Well, that and the fact he can score the ball at will when he's healthy.