In the ultra-competitive world of the NBA, very few players make it to the highest level. But for Malik Beasley, beating the odds and defying expectations has been the story of his life so far.
Rising Star chronicles the inspiring journey of the high-flying shooting guard, from his humble beginnings being raised by a single mother in Atlanta, to becoming one of the league's most exciting young talents. This candid memoir provides an unvarnished look at the sacrifices, setbacks and unrelenting drive that paved Beasley's path to pro stardom.
Readers will go behind the scenes of his tumultuous draft night experience, where he went unselected despite being a projected first-round pick. They'll witness his emotional reunion with his mother after getting that life-changing call from the Denver Nuggets. Beasley recounts living out of motels and eating mustard sandwiches as an undrafted rookie just trying to keep his NBA dream alive.
With striking honesty, he pulls back the curtain on the intense pressures and ruthless competitiveness that define the modern NBA lifestyle. From harrowing injuries to self-doubt and isolation, Beasley doesn't hold back on the darker realities he's endured. He credits his unwavering self-belief and faith as the twin pillars powering his resiliency.
Ultimately, Rising Star is an uplifting underdog tale about harnessing one's potential and pursuing greatness, regardless of the obstacles. It's a humanizing window into the all-too-rare NBA success story of an unheralded prospect beating the odds through sheer talent and force of will. As skilled on the court as he is candid off of it, Beasley has crafted an inspirational memoir for anyone who has dreamed of transcending their circumstances to rise and shine.