Better known as Spree, Latrell Sprewell made a huge impact as soon as he entered the NBA. He started in his rookie year. He had displayed exceptionally good ball-handling skills. He could have had more opportunities to showcase his abilities, but one decision and controversy prevented him. Despite all the hurdles, the basketball legend managed to bounce back and amass a huge fortune.

During his career, Sprewell played for three teams and earned nearly $100 million. He was also selected for four All-Star games. Toward the end of his career in 2004, the Minnesota Timberwolves offered him a $21 million extension deal. However, Sprewell refused the deal, stating that the amount wouldn’t even be enough for his family. 

“Why would I want to help them win a title? They’re not doing anything for me. I’ve got a lot at risk here. I’ve got my family to feed,” he said the reason about refusing the claim. Playing alongside Kevin Garnett and Sam Cassell, Sprewell was the third-highest scorer on the Minnesota Timberwolves.

He even helped lead the team to the Western Conference Finals. This saw the three become the highest-scoring group in the NBA. But the offer wasn’t up to his expectations. He expected a new offer to show up during the February trade deadline in 2005. But that deal fell through. Sprewell’s decision to refuse the Timberwolves’ offer and his comment regarding the deal weren’t well-received by the fans. Furthermore, he was troubled by more issues.

Other Latrell Sprewell’s controversies 

Back in 1997, Latrell Sprewell got into an altercation with his coach. During a practice session, Sprewell reportedly got into a physical altercation with Golden State Warriors head coach P. J. Carlesimo. Following this incident, Sprewell was suspended for 10 games without pay. 

Following this, the franchise decided to terminate his $23.7 million contract. Much later, the decision to end his contract was overturned. However, the league maintained that he would be suspended for 68 games which was big for a basketball player.

Sprewell also faced legal and financial troubles. He was sued for $200 million by his ex-girlfriend. Sprewell also owed $3 million in back taxes to the state of Wisconsin. Financial difficulties forced him to sell his yacht, which had $1.3 million in payments remaining and $650,000 in missed payments. Furthermore, two of his homes were foreclosed. The basketball star now resides in Milwaukee.

If only he had made different decisions and succesful with his negotiation, he might have had a very different career.