How much did OJ spend on the Dream Team?
The formation of the “Dream Team” in 1992 marked a historic moment in the world of basketball. Comprising the greatest talents from around the globe, this team went on to win the Olympic gold medal in Barcelona. However, the question that has intrigued many is: how much did OJ (Oscar Robertson) spend on assembling this all-star lineup?
The “Dream Team” was initially proposed by then-US Olympic Committee chairman, William Hybl. He approached OJ, who was serving as the president of the National Basketball Players Association, to spearhead the project. OJ, known for his leadership and passion for the sport, readily accepted the challenge.
The process of assembling the Dream Team was not only about selecting the best players but also about securing their availability for the Olympics. This required a significant financial investment. According to various sources, the total cost of the Dream Team’s participation in the Barcelona Olympics was approximately $12 million.
This sum included the salaries of the players, coaching staff, and other expenses related to their training and travel. The players were compensated for their time and effort, with the average salary for each player estimated to be around $1 million. Additionally, the NBA agreed to pay the players’ salaries during their absence from the league, ensuring that their contracts were not affected.
Despite the substantial financial investment, the Dream Team’s success on the court made it a worthwhile endeavor. The team’s performance in Barcelona left an indelible mark on the sport of basketball, showcasing the incredible talent and skills of the world’s best players. It also helped to popularize basketball worldwide, leading to increased interest and investment in the sport.
In conclusion, the question of how much OJ spent on the Dream Team can be answered with a figure of approximately $12 million. This investment paid off handsomely, as the Dream Team’s success on the court and its impact on the sport have been felt for decades.
