One of the harsh realities of overseas basketball is understanding that, at the end of the day, basketball is a business. No matter how well you play, no matter how much you’ve given to a team, there may come a moment when you receive a contract offer that feels like a slap in the face.
Sometimes, teams offer a returning player an insultingly low contract—not because they actually expect the player to accept it, but because it serves a bigger purpose for them. If the player turns it down (which is exactly what the team expects), the organization can spin the narrative: “We wanted him back, but he didn’t want to stay.” Suddenly, in the eyes of fans and the public, the player is the one who looks greedy, ungrateful, or disloyal.
Sound familiar?
The Dwight Howard Example
Let’s take a real-world case: Dwight Howard’s time in Taiwan during the 2022-23 season.
Howard put up dominant numbers—23 points, 16 rebounds, and 5 assists per game—but when it came time to negotiate his return, he was reportedly offered 65% less than his previous contract. A joke, right?
But let’s consider the team’s perspective for a second. Howard played just 20 games in a 30-game season. His squad finished dead last, with a 6-14 record (including just 2 wins in their last 10 games). Yes, he was a marketing goldmine, bringing major attention to the league and fully embracing the culture. But in basketball business terms, the team had reason to justify a lower offer—whether that reason was valid or just an excuse to cut costs.
Here is something most people do not know about the situation. The Taiwan league normally caps the salary of foreign players to $200,000 but made an exception for Howard that first season. They would have most definitly needed another exception from the league for a second one.
What Players Need to Understand
Howard’s situation is extreme, but this happens at all levels of overseas basketball. Teams will lowball players for several reasons:
- Saving money – Cutting costs while still appearing interested
- Power play – Testing a player’s loyalty and reaction
- Shifting blame – Making the player look like the bad guy when they decline
So, what should YOU do if you get one of these offers?
How to Handle a Lowball Offer Like a Pro
Take emotions out of it – Yes, it’s frustrating, but remember: this is business. Teams are doing what’s best for them, and you must do the same for yourself.
Consider the full picture – Is there a reason for the low offer? Is the team struggling financially? Did they underperform? Weigh all factors before making a decision.
Keep it professional – Even if you’re rejecting the deal, handle it the right way. Don’t burn bridges—overseas basketball is a small world.
Explore other options – If the offer doesn’t match your value, know your worth and start looking elsewhere. This is where networking and strategic career planning come into play.
The overseas basketball business is complex, unpredictable, and sometimes unfair. But with the right knowledge and strategy, you can navigate it like a pro. Need help making the best career moves? That’s where I come in.
Hit me up at SJM Consulting, and let’s build your game plan.
Let’s Talk…