When it comes to signing a contract in free agency, some players look to squeeze out every last dollar and maximize their earnings. Some players look for cities with great nightlife and money-making opportunities off  of the court. Others are all about the rings. At this point in his career, that’s exactly what David West is about. West left a significant amount of money on the table for one reason, a shot at a championship.

When West opted out of his current contract with the Indiana Pacers, he made it clear that the sole reason for doing so was to win a title. It was unclear at the time how much of a pay cut he’d be taking to chase that title. Now, having signed with the San Antonio Spurs, it turns out he’s leaving roughly $11 million on the table.

It’s always nice to see a player the caliber of West recognize that ultimately winning is the only thing that matters in the NBA. Winning a championship does a lot more for your legacy than any amount of money ever could. A lot of players will say the right things. But when it comes down to it, many base their decision on the value of the contract.

Players who do just that are typically crucified by media and fans for being greedy. Their integrity and motivations are frequently questioned. Many wonder just exactly why players need to make so much money. When players cite the need to provide for their family as an explanation, fans scoff.

West isn’t the first player to forgo money in chase of a championship. However few, if any, left $11 million dollars on the table to do so. Many will typically sacrifice a few million dollars, which to some isn’t really a sacrifice at all given their career earnings. West, for example, has earned roughly $75 million dollars throughout his career. To many, sacrificing $11 million may seem easy. It’s not just that he sacrificed money, it’s who besides the Pacers he passed on.

West’s choosing the Spurs speaks volumes in regards to his opinion of the league. While many experts, and Las Vegas, feel that the Cleveland Cavaliers are favorites to be champions next year, West clearly doesn’t feel the same way. Both the Cavaliers and Spurs have talented rosters, but perhaps it’s the gigantic mismatch at head coach that tipped the scales in favor of San Antonio.

West doesn’t like the Golden State Warriors‘ chances of repeating either, as he declined an offer from them as well.

He could have earned more money playing for either team, both of which are likely to be championship contenders. Yet, West felt that his addition to the current Spurs roster made them the favorites, and he may be right.

Derek McVay is a NBA featured writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @mcvay34, or add him to your network on Google.