Former NBA guard CJ Miles recalled an uncomfortable experience during his time in the NBA Development League, revealing that his daily allowance was larger than the combined amount received by his teammates.

Miles explained that he was playing in the D-League while still under an NBA contract, creating a significant financial difference between him and the other players on the roster.

“That dynamic was crazy? I’m down there on a league deal. The first time I get down there, they come to bring us our per diem. My per diem envelope is more than what the whole team get for per diem.”

The former Utah Jazz guard said the situation became particularly awkward when a staff member handed him his allowance in front of the entire team.

Recognizing how the payment might look to his teammates, Miles immediately asked that it never happen again.

“And they hand it to me in front of everybody and I had to pull them to the side like, “Don’t do that sh*t to me again.”

Miles explained that many of his D-League teammates were working to support their families while earning significantly less money than NBA players.

He felt uncomfortable receiving special treatment, especially because those same players were regularly outperforming him during practices.

“These dudes trying to feed their families, I look, I look privileged as hell in this position, right? Like ‘cause they kicking my ass in practice.”

The financial disparity also created an unusual competitive environment.

While Miles had the security of an NBA contract, other players were fighting for opportunities to reach the league and earn better salaries.

He recalled how that situation could leave teammates questioning why he occupied an NBA roster spot when they believed they were capable of competing at the same level.

“And he like, “Why that spot not mine?””