by Brett Edwards
There's a phenomenal interview with Charles Oakley over at ESPN.com, where Oak is probed about the reasons for his attempting a comeback at the age of 43. There's a good chance that money is the main motivator, but considering it's Oakley we're talking about, it could just as easily be about his desire to slap some of the younger players around a bit. Either way, more of Charles Oakley in front of a microphone is always a good thing. Here's a sampling of some of the more riveting commentary from the interview:
Your pal Jordan knows a thing or two about comebacks. What advice has he given you?
MJ is my best friend. He respects me as a friend (regardless) of what I want to do. He says, "If they going to pay you, you come back. If they're not going to pay you, don't." I'm not going to come back for no veteran's minimum. I'm coming back for a good salary. You can't buy me. Money can't buy me. But I'm not coming back for no bull---- money.
OK then, what is not "bull---- money"?
At least two years, $10 million. Nine or 10 million. I'm not coming back for a million and five. My value is worth more than that.
That's a lot of money, Oak. Is this comeback about money?
It's not about money. Money is a part of the comeback, but you can't buy me. It's something I'd be happy with, but I can get you more than what you paid for. I'll give you three-times your money.
You're often spotted in Vegas and it's well known that you like to gamble. Is your comeback attempt at all related to gambling?
No, it's not about gambling. I have money. I have six car washes. I have one that's worth $10 million, one that's worth $5 million. You know, like, I'm probably worth $25 million dollars in assets.
You hear that, General Managers? Oakley WILL NOT PLAY FOR BULLSHIT MONEY! Honestly, I'm not sure Oakley would pass a drug test at this point if he thinks anyone in the league would pay him $20 mil over two years. It's obvious that Oak would provide some toughness and some entertainment to any team that would sign him, I just don't know if any of it would be seen on the basketball court.
[via True Hoop]
OMFG..just go away already and run your car washes..let the yougens take the reins..your time passed long ago..
geez..what is up with these fooools..
Posted by: greenlake | August 21, 2007 at 11:44 PM
Did he seriously say, "You can't buy me. Money can't buy me." and follow that with "But I'm not coming back for no bull---- money." Wow. That is so awesome. God, I hope he comes back.
Liston
Posted by: Liston | August 24, 2007 at 08:13 AM
Oak needs a body wash in one of his car wash. He should admit he's a wash out !
Posted by: coach | August 24, 2007 at 05:53 PM
Oak's got as much chance of making $5 million a year in the NBA as I do.
P.S. I'm not a prof. player. Not even close.
Posted by: No Blood No Foul | August 26, 2007 at 11:11 AM
wow id actually like to see OAk play. wouldnt that be cool? and the age dont even matter its who ever can get it in on the court that really matters
Posted by: destynee oakley | December 07, 2007 at 11:36 AM
If you doubt yourself, then indeed you stand on shaky ground.
Posted by: Air Jordan shoes | November 03, 2010 at 02:13 AM
what a fool
Posted by: john | December 26, 2010 at 05:10 AM
hey oak got sit your OLD ASS down..or maybe your gambling paerner Mike Jordan will sign you to his team?
Posted by: john | December 26, 2010 at 05:12 AM
The league is to fast for a OLD ASS OAKTREE........
Posted by: john | December 26, 2010 at 05:13 AM
And the essence of friendship ethics is trust and respect
Posted by: Chanel Replica Watches | January 14, 2011 at 11:51 PM
Haaaaaaaaaaaaa! I love it...and I had such a thing for this man in 1987! Really, really Oakman, REALLY!?!?!?!?
Posted by: Ing | January 28, 2011 at 05:54 AM