How much of a decision is there to make when millions are on the line? More than you think.
Of course, Mike is going to take the money. Who wouldn’t? But he knows the money will be there whenever he decides he’s ready. And he’s not sure that time is now.
I’ve had extensive conversations with his mother - I think you guys know her by now - and the best way to describe Mike’s mind-state was, in Ms. Smith’s words, “one foot in, one foot out.” I don’t think this was a foregone conclusion like many suggest it was.
Again, with millions on the line - yeah, it’s a pretty easy decision for you or me. But barring a catastrophic injury - but even then, as Dalonte Hill told me weeks ago, Kenyon Martin broke his leg in the Conference USA tournament but was still the No. 1 pick in the 2000 NBA Draft just months later - the money will always be there.
And those crucifying Frank Martin for saying he expects Mike to leave are ridiculous. We all expect him to leave - why should Frank be any different? And if something - God Forbid - were to happen to Mike, it would be on Martin’s watch. Something tells me Frank doesn’t want to take that chance.
It’s hokey, sure, but Mike loves K-State. You’re tired of reading it, I’m tired of writing it, but it’s true. And when was the last time he remained in one place - with his family - for more than one year? There are a lot of compelling reasons why he might return, but in reality, there are millions why he won’t.
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If Mike stays, Pat Riley’s hair will fall out. For lots of selfish reasons I’d like Mike to stay in Manhattan, but watching Riles go bald would be a hoot!
Barn.
I, like so many, hope that Michael will stay at K-State. He deserves a chance to “be a kid” in college, and to experience all that entails without having to deal with the pressures that earning “the big money” (often) brings.
That being said, I will respect his decision this evening and my prayers will continue to go out to him and his family. Michael, remember, this is but one of many difficult decisions you will face in your life. It won’t make or break you. Follow your heart, use your head, and by all means keep your sense of humor!
Mike Beasley will most likely go down as my favorite basketball player of all-time. His decision to stick with KSU despite the coaching change, his confidence to beat the imaginary birds, and the story of helping the kid at the basketball game are just some of the reasons why I feel this way. If he goes pro, I wish him the best. If he stays, there will be no “probably” with my comment. In a world driven my money, it will show that love rules! God bless Mike and KSU!
First, I don’t hesitate in saying that he will probably bolt into the NBA draft. But I also know the decision isn’t easy.
A person has 4 years of their life to enjoy a college basketball experience. They dream of the NCAA tournament, enjoy the crazy fan atmosphere and energy, and they live for a championship under their belt. 4 years or bust.
But, not many people have the opportunity to leave a complete and foundation-building legacy at the foot of the basketball career. Building something that will foreshadow any of their future achievements. He will have plenty of years to enjoy the NBA, the money, the sponsorships, the fans from a completely different perspective. He will make the money, but it doesn’t necessarily need to be right at this moment.
Enjoy the freedom, the fans, the college life, and being a leader that basically re-built the powerhouse that this program used to be.
Yeah, it’s not easy. You’re right, there are millions of reasons to bail, but money definitely isn’t everything in this world.
Do you see what you’ve done J-Mart? Stop it.
sad.
but so happy for mike. he will always be a k-stater. what an enormous privilege it was to watch him play for us.
much love, mike, and great luck in the league.
KState basketball will never be the same… we will go on to great things with the recruits we have coming in but Mike made this team something special.
Go Win some games Mike! Thank you! Thank you Mama Beaz as well!
It hurts worse for all the fans who were privileged enough to see him play and won’t see him in “our” purple again… Now, I hold out hope that Walker wants to be a lottery pick also…which will take one more year. Thanks Mike… Thanks to Ms. Smith as well…
Of course it’s difficult. None of us wanted to leave K-State, even after they handed us the degree. But I can’t blame him, and it was a privilege to see him wear the purple this year. EMAW!