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Watch: David West explains why he sacrificed money for shot at ring

Ximo Pierto/YouTube

When his playing career is over, veteran Warriors big man David West could have a second career as an inspirational speaker. Or maybe a slam poet. The man just has a way with words.

After winning his first title after 14 years in the league, West was asked by NBATV's David Aldridge about his decision to eschew a larger payday in the offseason for the chance at capturing that elusive championship.

"Look, you can't take it with you," West begins. "The Egyptians learned that. You can't bury and take the treasures with you. It's about the small things in life, the accomplishments. It's about winning. We set a goal, we worked every single day toward that goal, and nobody can ever take that away from us."

When his four-year, $44-million contract with the Indiana Pacers concluded, West signed a veteran minimum deal with the San Antonio Spurs in summer 2015. A year later, West declined his player option with the Spurs and joined the Warriors for approximately $1.5 million.

West's newfound status as an NBA champion? Absolutely priceless.

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