Player Bio

Bradley Emmanuel Beal was born in 1993 in St. Louis. He is the son of Bobby and Besta Beal and has four brothers, all of whom played college football. Both of Beal's parents played sports at Kentucky State. Hip hop legend Nelly used to walk Beal to school. In praising Beal's success, Nelly said "He's a testament to good upbringing, strong parents, determination and work." The "Real Deal" attended and played basketball at Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis. He was named the 2011 Gatorade National High School Player of the Year after his senior season in which he averaged 32.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.7 steals. Beal was also named a 2011 McDonald's and Jordan Brand All-American. The shooting guard was also a two-time Gatorade Player of the Year in Missouri (2010 and 2011) and won gold medals as a member of the U16 and U17 Team USA squads. As a pro, Beal participated in the 2013 and 2014 White House Easter Egg Roll as part of the Eggtivity Zone, joining other professional athletes and President Barack Obama in promoting health and wellness. Fans can learn more about the All-Star on Twitter (@RealDealBeal23) and Instagram (@bradbeal3). Beal was named both a first-team All-SEC and SEC All-Freshman in the 2011-12 season, the first University of Florida men's basketball player to accomplish that feat. The St. Louis, Missouri native led the Gators in rebounds (6.7), minutes (34.2) and steals (1.4) while ranking second on the team in points (14.8). Beal propelled the Gators to the 2012 SEC Tournament, where they ultimately fell to Louisville. He was named to the All-SEC Tournament team. Beal also helped lead Florida to the Elite Eight in the 2011 NCAA Tournament. Beal registered a double-double (14 points and 11 rebounds) in the opening game over Virginia. He entered the 2012 NBA Draft after his freshman year and was selected third overall by the Wizards.