What is "broke"?

It's refreshing to come across Jamal Mashburn's account of the implications of the term, "broke," and what it means for professional athletes. Horror stories like Terrell Owens and Allen Iverson's life after basketball exist as cautionary tales, but, as Mashburn points out, only in a very superficial way. In only looking at the material implications of "broke," one is missing the larger problem that has nothing to do with money:

"'Broke' is not just a reflection on finances, most guys are broke before they step one foot on the professional sports field or court. Low self esteem, lack of courage and discipline, with no idea how to lead themselves outside the sport are some of the symptoms."

Courageous sentiments from a very introspective guy who walks the walk as well as talks the talk: Mashburn owns over 71 food franchises including Papa John's, Outback Steakhouses, and Dunkin' Donuts as well as car dealerships and a real estate company in Kentucky: a shining example that, for talented athletes, sports is just the beginning, not the highlight of the show.