Attack and Believe

Story of The Week

Caleb was 15 and had never played competitive soccer. He’d always just messed around with his friends or played at school, but when his buddies convinced him to try out for the travel team, something changed. He showed up to tryouts, and the coaches saw potential in him. They were clear, though: Caleb wouldn’t get much playing time his first year. They thought he had talent but told him upfront that this wasn’t the season he’d make an impact. Instead, they offered him a spot to practice, learn, and develop.

Caleb appreciated their honesty; they were tough but fair and treated him with the same care they showed the star players. The year was challenging, with coaches pushing him hard in every drill, just like they did with the starters. He stuck with it, and by the end of the season, Caleb knew he was a different player. He realized his upcoming four-month off-season was his chance to close the gap between him and the superstars.

While his friends watched movies and his brothers played video games, Caleb was out running hills or dribbling in the garage. He focused solely on his goal, motivated by the coaches who had believed in him, whether he was a bench player or a starter. The next season, he earned a starting position, and two years later, he was playing at the university level. Caleb had learned a powerful lesson: it’s not about how or when you start—it’s about how you attack your goals when you find what you truly want.

Stat of the week

Here are some fascinating stats on former professional athletes who became incredibly wealthy through smart investments or successful business ventures:

1. Magic Johnson – Net Worth: $600 Million+

• After retiring, Magic Johnson built an empire through investments in real estate, Starbucks franchises, and movie theaters. His company, Magic Johnson Enterprises, is valued at over $1 billion.

• Johnson made a huge impact in urban real estate and currently holds stakes in teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Sparks.

2. Shaquille O’Neal – Net Worth: $400 Million+

• Shaq has invested in over 50 different brands, including Papa John’s (owning several franchises), Five Guys Burgers & Fries, and Krispy Kreme.

• His investments in tech companies like Google (he invested early on) and his appearances on TV as a spokesperson have significantly boosted his wealth post-NBA.

3. Michael Jordan – Net Worth: $2 Billion+

• Jordan’s majority ownership in the Charlotte Hornets increased his net worth substantially as the team’s valuation rose to $1.5 billion before his partial sale in 2023.

• His long-term partnership with Nike continues to bring in over $150 million annually, making him the richest former athlete globally.

4. Roger Staubach – Sold his company for $640 Million

• The former Cowboys quarterback founded The Staubach Company, a commercial real estate firm, in 1977. He later sold it to Jones Lang LaSalle for $640 million in 2008, amassing a significant fortune through the deal.