Dominique Wilkins highest-paid in Europe, but would rather play in NBA

Jet, Nov 10, 1997

Pro basketball veteran Dominique Wilkins once dominated in the NBA, then he took his skills overseas. Then he came back to the NBA, now he is overseas again and is Europe's highest-paid player.

With Team-System Bologna in Italy's top-flight. A-1 league, Wilkins signed a two-year, $3.9 million deal--$1.8 million this season with a $2.1 million option for 1998, the Atlanta Journal and Constitution reported. Already this season he is averaging more than 20 points.

Two years ago Wilkins led Panathaniakos of Athens to the European League title.

Despite being the highest-paid in Europe, Wilkins would rather play in the NBA. He argues that the salary cap forced him out. Playing for the NBA minimum salary of $247,500 last season, Wilkins provided the dismal San Antonio Spurs with an 18.2 point average. He says it's because of the salary cap that he's not on this season's roster.

"San Antonio wanted me, but they couldn't afford me," he told USA Today. "It's not really ego with me but what I've done over the years. It's hard for me to play for the minimum."

Now 37, he argues that the salary cap forces older players to retire or play abroad. He says age has nothing to do with talent. "Great athletes just go out and play. It's drive and determination. It's the love of the game."