Charity Gift For Laid-Off Laker Employees

[excerpt] Kobe Bryant insisted on giving some of the team's playoff bonus to two members of the Lakers' video department whose contracts were not renewed after the season. Chris Bodaken and Patrick O'Keefe split about $65,000 of the Lakers' playoff bonus.

First, we recognize both players for giving up a portion of their playoff bonuses to help two people who needed the financial assistance. No matter how paltry the sum was to professional athletes earning tens of millions of dollars per year in income and endorsements, the fact that they gave anything at all should be acknowledged. And, that's all.

They didn't give a dime of their massive salaries, but rather a portion of the bonus they are given simply for making the playoffs. $65,000 is pocket change to these guys. They spend that much on a single automobile or single night in a hotel room. 

If not for the unabashed greed of the owners, stakeholders, and athletes, the regular employees should never have to fear for their jobs. Pro sports teams massive earnings are more than enough to pay for the salaries of every single employee.

When a player gives an entire year's salary to help people in need or to a worthwhile organization, then be impressed. As nice as this gesture is, it's still insulting.