Michael Beasley to Shanghai Sharks: Latest Contract Details, Reaction, Analysis

Michael Beasley has decided to continue his basketball career in China rather than pursue further stateside opportunities. The second overall pick in the 2008 NBA draft has reportedly signed a deal with the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball Association.   

Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports passed along the news from Beasley's agent, Jared Karnes:

He also notes the team is led by former NBA star Yao Ming:

ESPN's Bomani Jones weighed in on Beasley's move to China:

Along with spending training camp with the Memphis Grizzlies, Beasley also had offseason workouts with the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs.

The 25-year-old forward was drafted by the Miami Heat. He made stops with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Phoenix Suns before returning to South Beach last season. He played a limited role for the Eastern Conference champions.

Ira Winderman of the Sun Sentinel provided remarks from Heat general manager Pat Riley about letting Beasley leave:

Beasley has always flashed offensive upside, averaging 19 points per game during the 2010-11 campaign. However, his woes on the defensive end paired with some off-court issues likely caused many teams to shy away from giving him a chance.

So he'll head to China, where he should feature more prominently for the Sharks. The league also features Ron Artest (aka Metta World Peace, aka The Pandas Friend).

If Beasley shines, there's always a chance he could return to the NBA down the line.