Well, I was thinking for the reasons described above: that for many youngsters who "go pro," they run into the same problems as winning the lottery. A college education for some sports has replaced the minor leagues as a training ground for athletes to become savvy about things like media, groupies, teamwork (for many, they are used to being big fish in little ponds; it is hard to mentally make the adjustment to being "average" among your peers and male strength does not actually peak until early 20s, not 18), and finally, agents. For many people, college is a chance to interact with a diverse group of people and learn adult socialization skills such as diplomacy, standing up to pressure (the stakes are higher), etc.
I work as a professional sports writer, and I have seen too many "hot prospects" end up playing in Europe because major league teams don't care about the emotional or social well being of players--they are a commodity. It is hard to realize as a human being that all the money they pay you doesn't make you "great" in the eyes of your employer--they OWN you.
And in most schools, athletic scholarships are funded through alumni donations and ticket revenues, at least in part. Plus merchandise deals, etc. 
As a taxpayer, I'd rather help pay for someone's education and have the be a healthier person that pay for it on the other side when they get in trouble with the law or substance abuse.
That's just me. I respect your point of view.
