As college basketball continues to be in the headlines in the midst of a federal investigation, talk of amateur athletes and the money made by the universities continues to be a hot-button issue.

On Tuesday night, Washington Redskins linebacker and former Alabama star Ryan Anderson took to social media, calling the NCAA "the biggest pimps in America."

Former Alabama teammates joined him in the conversation.

Anderson tweeted, "Used to give us a $100 check every month my freshman year." That, of course, is a reference to a stipend as part of a student-athletes scholarship.

Former Alabama star Reggie Ragland reminisced about the good ole' days when he only got $35.

The discussion of paying college athletes seems like it is as old as the forward pass. There have been passionate arguments for both sides.

So, let me lay out the reasons as to why athletes don't need more than what they are getting now, assuming a stipend meets the cost of attendance and living. For the sake of this argument, let's keep this in the realm of football and basketball. Because last time I checked, I don't hear much of a public outcry to pay the men's and women's tennis or cross country teams. I wonder why that is. Hmmmm.

But I digress.

You've heard the argument that not all athletic programs could support such a financial proposal. No question that's true.

Instead of what student-athletes don't get, look at what they do get: Stipend, room, meal plan, tuition, books, priority scheduling, academic tutoring services are just a few of the perks.

But, before you roll your eyes, remember, too, that these high-profile athletes are getting a four- to five-year marketing blitz to showcase their talent for future employment.

Sure, the universities are making money. A lot of money. In fact, they may not care for the student-athlete the way you might.

Of course, athletes feel like they deserve more than what they get.

However, I would ask sports fans out there, do you feel like you deserve to be compensated more than what you are currently being paid? Sure, you do. Everyone does. It's human nature.

Some athletic programs have gotten smart about giving their players more without actually handing them money. We call it: facilities upgrades. Why do you think Alabama has a barber shop or a water fall in the athletic facility? Why does Dabo Swinney have a slide or a golf simulator in Clemson's facility? There are stories of facilities adding bowling alleys and arcades all the time.

These programs are trying to take care of the players that take care of them.

Of course, it isn't the same as being paid what you think you are worth.

Here's the biggest problem with paying players, though: It will never be enough. If you give a mouse a cookie, he's going to want a glass of milk.

But, college athletes will say, I don't have any money for gas or go on a date. My response? Welcome to college. You are no different than any other college student, except your four or five years are paid for, thanks to your hard work and success.

I'm not saying it doesn't suck to lack money in your pocket, but we all have to make choices.

It's called life.

If student-athletes don't like the compensation, one of their choices is pretty simple: Don't sign a letter of intent.

Pay for play is an explosive debate for sure. Feel free to jump in the comment section. The water is still warm.

Mark Heim is a sports reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim.