Hmmmmmmmmm.. Very tricky one. I'm tempted to agree with you given that academics helps to stimulate the brain and this could also help in sports. Reason academies in England for example have scholars, combing education and football.

On the flip side, some players have actually climbed to the peak of the game without education beyond high school. Some eventually go back to school after making it through sports, which means they also realize the edge education gives.

They may be just the outliers of the lot, in my opinion, I think it's a good idea to combine both. It gives you something to leverage even after your career in active sports ends.

Nice thought stimulated, friend.