Why NBA Stars Won't Be Taking Their Talents to Europe

With the NBA lockout in full swing and the news options for ESPN dwindling by the second, it seems that more and more NBA stars are coming forward to express their interest in playing in Europe should the season be postponed or cancelled. News flash - this isn't going to happen. While we may see mid-level players head across the pond, there is no way a superstar will be joining them. Why not? There's too much risk involved. How is it a good idea to work in a country that you don't speak the language, earn a fraction of your regular paycheck, play in arenas that are the size of U.S. high school gyms and have crowds smaller than a midnight showing of Harry Potter? It's only a good idea if your last name is Iverson or Marbury. This is simply the player's union trying to gain some leverage against the owners. "You don't want to meet our demands? Fine, we'll just play in Europe." Give me a break. Shame on ESPN for labeling this as "Breaking News." The only thing this is breaking is the hearts of the 17 fans that show up for basketball games in Europe.