by Monica Wood 06-28-2008 02:00 AM
Now here is an example of how your off-the-court (field) personality, attiitude and actions, could negatively affect your professional future, before it even gets started. Michael Beasley's stats speak for themselves. On paper, it is a done deal, he would be your logical pick. However, just like in any job, a potential employer has to see if a potential employee can not only put action behind his words, but also positively "represent" the company he would be working for. And, in this day in age, with the professional sports industry getting hit left & right, non-stop, it makes sense for Riley to pause in deciding if they should take Beasley, if he shows any potential of bringing drama. Again, like in any employment situation, there are other candidates to chose from. And, if they seem to not have the element of drama in them...you more than likely will lean on the side of a safe pick.
So, this needs to serve as an example for all aspiring professional athletes...that you have to bring more than just your game to the table. Who are you when you are not playing? What are your goals in life? What do you stand for? How do you look to grow and progress as an athlete and a person over the years to come? These things are now becoming more important than just your stats. And, need to be taken seriously by these athletes.
The Playbook: Mentoring Initiative is designed to address these areas and more.
Editor's Note: Even though Beasley ended up being drafted #2 by the Heat, it is important to realize that despite his talents, he could have easily fallen down the draft board because of his character issues.
Published 06-28-2008 © 2026 Access Athletes, LLC
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