New NC State coach Will Wade recently went on a fiery rant about “casual players”, saying among other things . . .

'If you're not physical and you're not tough then you better be alert and aware.' And we're still none of the four."

Frustrated as many OSUMB fans are, we might agree that some Buckeye players are falling short of the mark, as well.

All this made me think about what motivates basketball players in this “era”. Here are my thoughts, borne of frustration as they might be:

Ostensibly, college players today get paid (NIL, etc) for showing up, for being on a school's team. Other than taking classes, participating in practices, and staying out of trouble, this is what required to maintain one's "pay". 

Of the NBA-unlikely players, it appears that many are being paid more than they would earn in the G-League or in pro-leagues overseas.

Where's the incentive to listen & learn, improve Hoops IQ, perform well in games, try hard to win?

They're getting paid regardless of results. What is their motivation?

Is it just their own desire to win that motivates some of them to get better, play hard, play together, win?

Are these perceptions correct? Or am I missing something?