Being Tito Isn't Bad

Sidekicks

Sidekicks are a part of most team. Looking through history of pop culture, you find capable sidekicks. Gladys Knight and the Pips, Diana Ross and the Supremes, Batman and Robin being the most famous. Sports has had its fair share of duos as well. Kareem and Magic, Larry, McHale and the Chief, Jordan and Pippen to name a few. Sometimes its difficult for some guys to accept their sidekick role. That's where we are with Michael Beasley of the Miami Heat. Beasley took exception from Charles Barkley saying that Dwyane Wade is playing with a bunch of Tito Jackson's. To me, I find it funny but "B-Easy" took it as an insult. Michael's problem is he has gone from being the lead to a backup role and he doesn't know how to handle it.

Know Your Role

Beasley has had a rocky start to his career. He has battled some drug related issues as well as bouts with depression. Beasley came in to the league picked after Derrick Rose, but he is not having nearly the same impact as Rose is having with the Bulls. Michael just doesn't know how to play basketball and not be the first option. Wade creates for himself and his teammates and Beasley just isn't fitting in. To be called Tito, isn't an insult because at least Tito played the right notes for the Jackson Five. If Beasley played up to his potential, people would not be making comments about poorly Beasley is playing.

Beasley is used to being the man. He went to Kansas State and resurrected a dormant college basketball program. He was a candidate for national player of the year. Sports Illustrated had him on the cover. The world was his oyster and Beasley could do no wrong. Michael has been given constant praise throughout his basketball career and has never had to work hard. Now he is faced with adversity for the first time in his career and Michael doesn't know how to handle it. Its the classic story of young ball players when they come into to the league with so much hype. A lot of these kids don't see the time and preparation that professionals put into their basketball. You have to not only prepare daily but its a must that you improve your game. The off season is not a time to chill, its time to take your game to another level. Michael Beasley is getting starters minutes and is not contributing a lot. What he needs to find a niche until the rest of his game catches up to him. He could be the energy guy or rebounding specialist, something that will bring something extra to the team. A spark that compliments Wade not adds more pressure.

Mike Beasley needs to grow up and find his place within the Heat or he will get dealt to another team. What Michael has to realize is that Tito kept the band together. You don't have to be the star Beasley to be a leader.