Roy Hibbert Unchanged After New Contract
Such is the dilemma that comes with a life-altering contract such as the one Hibbert autographed. Teams might as well throw in a double-edged sword with such deals, because the player faces increased scrutiny from that point forward. Many fans have a built-in resentment toward highly-paid athletes, and are looking for a reason to pounce. How an athlete responds to that pressure can make or break a career, or at least influence a legacy.
The early indications in training camp are that Hibbert hasn’t been swayed either way by his windfall. He doesn’t appear to have shifted into I’ve-got-it-made mode, nor is he putting pressure on himself to dominate every possession in practice. His teammates haven’t showed any hints of resentment, either, although some did jokingly inquire about obtaining low-interest loans from him. He’ll have to live with such inconveniences, at least for awhile.
Hibbert appears uncomfortable when asked about the contract. Normally talkative and lighthearted, his answers grow more serious and clipped. He even played the “it wasn’t about the money” card on Media Day, but he was convincing in his argument.
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