Former NBA guard Patrick Beverley explained how focusing on defense and accepting a limited offensive role helped him earn approximately $80 million during his professional basketball career.
Beverley said he understood early on that his best opportunity to establish himself in the NBA was to concentrate on defending opposing players, shooting three-pointers, and following the responsibilities assigned to him.
“I fell right in line. Hey Pat, pick up 94 feet, stand your ass in the corner, shoot threes. You’re going to give me $80 million if I do that? All right, cool. Say less.”
Rather than trying to become a primary offensive option, Beverley embraced his role as a defensive specialist and developed a reputation for his aggressive approach on the court.
He also recalled how his behavior changed after securing his first NBA contract, when he began expressing himself more freely during games.
“And then once I got my first contract, okay, hold on, let me get a couple techs. Let me just act wild real quick. Let me see what this gives me. Oh, defensive player.”
Beverley explained that his approach eventually helped him earn recognition for his defensive performances, including multiple All-Defensive Team selections.
“Oh, I get a first team. Oh, I get a second team, I get another second team. Okay, yeah, I can make a life out of this…”
The veteran guard also discussed how he approached the timing of his behavior, suggesting that he understood how to attract attention while continuing to build his reputation.
“And I only did it after all-star too, so I could put it in the algorithm. I’m not smart… I just know a little about a lot of things…”
