Unlike many pro athletes, Pittsburgh Steelers NFL wideout Darrius Heyward-Bey has a pretty impressive financial portfolio. But when asked how he has avoided the temptation to spend his millions, Heyward-Bey credits his mother.
"I get an email (from her) every Tuesday," Heyward-Bey told ESPN. "I can read it over, check it up. I see where the money is going."
But it's not like Heyward-Bey's mum - Vivian - isn't qualified to take on this critical responsibility. She is a certified accountant and receives commission for the work she does for her son.
And because of her work, the former No.7 overall pick, whose career earnings are about $US35 million ($NZ48 million), has been fiscally responsible.
Heyward-Bey and his mum agree on a monthly allowance for the veteran wideout, and he also cuts corners where he can, telling ESPN that he shuts off the cable in his California home for half the year because "nobody's there watching TV."