Spurs' Leonard wasn't fazed by new maximum contract
San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard has had plenty of reasons to celebrate since he first entered the NBA. He's won one title, a Finals MVP and a Defensive Player of the Year award. Then, in July, Leonard signed a five-year, $94.3 million max contract, adding another highlight to his already impressive resume.
But according to the San Antonio Express-News, Leonard didn't react to his sudden financial windfall the way most players do:
Most would lose their minds after signing a contract that large. They'd buy everyone in their family a new car and house. They'd fill their closet with designer clothes. They'd lose their mind.
Not Leonard. He's a rare breed, totally focused on his career and being the best player he can be. It's a little weird, but it's also refreshing. Leonard remains humble and perpetually motivated. It's what makes him such an endearing athlete, and the Spurs couldn't be happier about it.
So did Leonard celebrate the five-year, $94.3 million extension he signed this summer? Go on a wild spending spree, or take a lavish vacation? Well, if you’ve paid any attention to Leonard’s career to this point — and judging by the fact you’re reading this site, you probably have — you already know the answer. “No, not at all,” Leonard said on Monday when asked if he cut loose after inking his big deal. Indeed, Leonard’s favorite part wasn’t the money, but the fact it ensures he’ll be an NBA player for at least five more years. “That’s what I’m most happy about,” he said. “I want to play 10 or more years in this league.”
