Here’s another entry from Mrs. Smith, aka Mike Beasley’s mom. Obviously, she’s more than that, and that’s part of what this weekly feature is about. It’s an opportunity to get inside the mind of the mother of one of your favorite K-State basketball players – and arguably the best player in the country.
And this week, she’s talking about “The People We Meet.” Here’s the thing, folks. She wants you to participate in this, as I get the sense she’d rather have this a question-and-answer format. So submit some questions down below in the comments field, and she’ll answer them in the following weeks.
Growing up in a large family, your siblings become your friends. My sister and I were, and still are, best friends to this day. We know each other inside and out. Once we reached adulthood and chose our two very different career paths (hers being owner/stylist of a sucessful hair salon back East) she has made more “friends” then I have. In fact, her friends are my friends, and she reminds me quite often that I steal her friends. Well, I guess this is partially true because I can probably count my own friends that I have made without her on two or maybe three fingers. Sad, huh? Not really…
When I go to basketball games, faces become more and more familiar. From the other families there to cheer on their sons, to the folks feeling lucky enough to have gotten tickets to see the Wildcats in action first hand. The stranger sitting/standing next to you is no longer a stranger because cheering for the same team has a way of bringing people closer together. Striking up random conversations with friendly faces seems so easy… so right. Wow, is this what friendship is really about? Talking and laughing and cheering and holding our breath together in hopes that our team pulls out another win. I’ve never been good with names, not even in my own house (now that’s sad…LOL), but I will always remember the faces that I will meet at the upcoming games.
I say all of this, basically to say to my sister – my “friend” list is growing faster than I could have ever imagined and she can even steal one or two of them if she’d like…
Quick reminder – make sure to come back next week for “The Road Trip Diaries.”
If you’re headed to Orlando, it sounds like you should holler at Mrs. Smith when you’re down there. You might make it into “Mama Sayz.”
Also, on a personal note, don’t expect too much – if anything – for the rest of the week. I’m off. I’m making calls, still doing some work, but I’m telling you, it’s probably going to be sporadic. I’m not saying you shouldn’t come back here and check every day – please do – but I’m going to enjoy my holiday. Just as you should.
Which reminds me – what am I thankful for? All of you for supporting me and continuing to read what I write about K-State athletics. Happy Thanksgiving, y’all.
20 Comments
Mama Beaz:
One thing you are going to learn is that the folks here in Kansas are good genuine people. We’re happy and you and your son chose KSU. Let’s enjoy the ride this year. Happy turkey Day!
How is Mike enjoying his college experience? How is he adapting to Midwest living? Thanks!
Is Levi going to be in Orlando? Is anyone?
How does Mike like not being able to talk to the media?
You’re doing a great job with this Mrs. Smith. I hope you’re having fun with it.
A few ideas/question you might consider writing about:
-What’s it like watching Mike interact with the generally public? I’m sure he was somewhat well known in DC, but Manhattan is so small, and Mike is on such a big stage now. It’s impossible for him to ever be anonymous.
-How much does the prospect of the impending NBA future weigh on your mind? Not necessarily the perks of your son becoming an instant millionaire (that has to be pretty surreal BTW), but more some of the concerns that comes along with that. The pressure, trappings of fame, too much too soon, etc. Is there anything in particular you try to instill in Mike, to help him deal with some of those things? Philosophies/words of wisdom you can share?
-How is Manhattan and Kansas State growing on you and your family?
-Any interesting/funny stories about the team and how they act behind the scenes would be interesting reading as well.
Hope some of those things spark some ideas. Also, I hope you’ll continue to update us after it comes time to for Mike to move on…
KUSucks – I can’t believe I just wrote that, by the way – Levi will be in Orlando.
Mom,
What was the coolest thing you saw in Orlando?
Chico
Mama, what do you think of the job Ron Prince is doing with the football team?
How are you adjusting to life in a place that is obviously quite different from Washington D.C.? What do you like better here? What do you miss? What has surprised you the most about Manhattan?
Mama, J-Mart and Wildcat Nation…HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Mama Beaz-
Happy Holidays to you! How are the rest of your kids adjusting to the move, Manhattan, school here, etc? Do any of them harbor any hard feelings towards Mike for causing them to move? I hope you’re all feeling welcome here.
Mama-
1) What do you think of Manhattan, KS compared to the East coast? Favorite restaurant, etc?
2)Is there a particular area/city that you would like Mike to end up at in his post KSU career?
3) Is mike enjoying college…be honest, no coach speak.
4) Frank Martin or Bob Huggins?
5) Hypothetical situation: There is a knife fight between Ray Lewis and OJ Simpson, who wins?
Hi ‘Tima!!
I just wanted to wish you a happy Thanksgiving,enjoy being with your family:-)
Miss you here in Frederick,don’t be a stranger!
HUGS
Angelika
Mama,
I am the guy that showed you the pics of my son and Mike. I just wanted to thank you again. You are so nice, it is great talking to you at the games as well. It is so incredible that Mike comes out and talks to, takes pictures with, and gives autographs to kids. My son is still on cloud nine. The kids on my bball team loved the autographs I brought back for them. He is a great young man and I am glad that everyone is treating you and your family well here in Kansas. I hope to get to another game soon. I will definitely be watching on TV today. Keep up the great articles.
Tim
“Also, on a personal note, don’t expect too much – if anything – for the rest of the week. I’m off.”
You can at least provide a report on how Ron Prince’s POWERCAT(tm) brand is going over in the deep south.
Tima
Its me, mona, i just wanted to see what u are going to say when you read this.
hi fatima ,i like to thank you for being a good mother to my kids.dymond, mike, and mychaela. your ex-husband michael beasley sr.
urrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Hey Tima, I will see you in New York….Charge It!!!!!!!!!
God Bless you and your family. Keep up the good work!