The life of an NBA athlete can be very tumultuous, to say the least. Filled with various ups and downs, from injuries to failed relationships, the toll of being a pro-athlete comes with a price. While successes in the NBA might be rewarding, it doesn’t necessarily set you up for life. Many former NBA players have filed for bankruptcy post-retirement. It just goes to show that not everything that sparkles is gold.
One of the more recent examples of stars just falling off the league is the case of Isaiah Thomas. The former Boston Celtics man was an important cog in the team but was swiftly replaced post-injuries. Another similar case where an NBA star fell off the grid is former Maverick’s star Delonte West. Found panhandling in the streets of Dallas, West’s case is a prime example of players not being ready for life post-retirement. Another ex-NBA star recently avoided jail time, as he was found guilty of a healthcare fraud.
While many players have failed to come to grips with life post-retirement, this case here is a little special. Where most people have been failed by the NBA after their careers, this case instead saw a player take advantage of the NBA. Former Boston Celtics guard Tony Allen recently escaped jail time after he was found guilty of healthcare fraud.
Attempting to take advantage of the NBA Players’ Health and Welfare Benefit Plan, Allen, alongside 17 other players, was accused of defrauding the NBA as they submitted fake claims for medical and dental services.