Marinovich, Mickelson Take Different Approach

In the last three weeks of reading The Times sports section, I’ve come across two young men whose stories may be causing young athletes a great deal of confusion. One is a crybaby-drug “possessor” foregoing his last two years of college in hopes of making millions in the NFL. The other is a poised amateur golfer-PGA tournament winner foregoing $180,000 in prize money to finish his college education. One has the attitude of a fourth-string bench warmer, the other has the makings of a Jack Nicklaus.

Todd Marinovich, meet Phil Mickelson, and get your priorities straight.

MICHAEL B. PHIPPS

Agoura Hills