Part 7/9:
At the core of Patel’s critique is the idea that sports have been complicit in fostering a corrupt environment—one that values money, image, and material success over integrity and character. He recalls the NBA's attempts to impose dress codes in the past, which he viewed as a step toward professionalism and a defense against gangster culture infiltrating sports.
He claims that today's environment promotes a "gangster lifestyle," leading to athletes being easily compromised. For instance, involvement in nightlife, gambling, or illicit relationships creates vulnerabilities—blackmail, scandals, and exposure—making athletes susceptible to manipulation and control by unsavory influences.