4/28/2026
Player's Tribune: Colin Knowles
Tension is rising across the DBA as Colin Knowles has yet to receive the full $20 payout for drafting his team, instead being issued only $10 by Commissioner Ben Howard. With the DBA Players Association backing Knowles, questions are beginning to surface about fairness—and whether the league office is playing favorites.
I didn’t think I’d have to say anything about this.
When I stepped up to draft my team in the auction, I did it the same way everyone else would—putting in the time, thinking through every pick, trying to build something competitive. That’s part of what makes the DBA fun.
But there was also an understanding.
The compensation for drafting a team was based on skill and like the other teams in my tier it was supposed to be $20.
So when I was given $10 instead, I was honestly caught off guard.
“I’m not asking for anything extra—I just want what was agreed to.”
That’s really what this comes down to for me. It’s not about making a scene or causing problems. It’s about consistency and fairness. If something is set, it should apply the same way to everyone.
Where Things Stand
Right now, I’ve only received half of what was expected. There hasn’t been a clear explanation, and that’s where the frustration starts to build—not just for me, but for other players too.
I’ve had a lot of guys reach out, and I appreciate that. The DBA Players Association backing me means a lot, because it shows this isn’t just about one situation—it’s about how things are handled across the league.
Bigger Than Just $10
Some people might look at this and think, “It’s just $10.” And yeah, on the surface, it is.
But it’s also about trust.
If we can’t rely on things being handled the way they’re supposed to be, it raises bigger questions. Players want to know that decisions are being made fairly and without bias.
There’s been talk—people wondering if certain teams or groups are getting different treatment. I’m not here to make accusations. But I do think transparency matters, especially when those conversations start happening.
Looking at the League Office
Commissioner Ben Howard hasn’t publicly addressed the situation yet, and I think that’s something players are waiting on.
At the end of the day, this league works because everyone buys into it—players, captains, and leadership. That only works if there’s accountability across the board.
What I Want Moving Forward
For me, it’s simple.
I want clarity. I want consistency. And yeah—I want the full $20 that was supposed to come with drafting my team.
But more than anything, I want to keep the integrity of the league intact. Because when things are done right, the DBA is as competitive and fun as it gets.
“We all care about this league. That’s why this matters.”
I’m confident this will get resolved. It just needs to be addressed the right way.
Regardless of what happens with the draft at Javier's, I'm excited to play May 9th and I am looking to win a championship and go out and compete to the best of our abilities.
- Colin Knowles