I have seen players make game-winning shots but get cut-off after the game.
I have seen players walk into the locker room before a game but are told not to get dressed and to see the GM first, only to find out that they have been traded.
I have seen rookie players get denied a spot for refusing to sing during the training camp. One of the many things rookies have to but sometimes refuse to do so. “If you won’t do something as simple as singing, how can the coach trust that you will listen to in-game strategies.”
I have known and seen players who were released but didn’t even know it.
I have seen coaches get fired only to learn that the new coach had been watching the game before getting fired.
Seeing all these things made me realize how important it is to have fun while playing basketball. There are so many things that may be out of your control and other factors may play a big role in those types of decisions.
There were days when playing basketball wasn’t fun but it had nothing to do with basketball. The factors that make basketball a business makes it less fun and may have an adverse impact on players. Young basketball players should not be dealing with the business side of basketball.
Every basketball player is endowed with a competitive spirit. Some players even want to be the best at everything they do.
There is nothing wrong with that! We are supposed to give our best in everything. To be one of the best, you must face adversity. You have to deal with the results, win or lose.
You have to deal with a teammate who may cause your team to lose. You have to deal with your coach after losing the game. At some point, you might also lose the game for your team.
The most important thing in a team is chemistry. Know when your teammate needs a pick-me-up. Remind them that the road to greatness includes ups and downs.
There are so many things that I have seen and heard about playing basketball over the years. This is the reason why it is important for kids to always have fun while working hard. They should learn to never quit, to stay disciplined and to always believe in themselves. I feel that kids should not be burdened with all of the unnecessary stress that comes with the game of basketball.
I hope a lot of kids can achieve their dreams of playing college or professional basketball. Playing basketball will always be fun. However, there may be times when the business aspect can take the fun away.
As a coach, I try to find ways on how I can prepare players when they are faced with these kinds of situations. I aim to mentally prepare young basketball players to be tough and to have fun while getting better.
When basketball players look back at their career, they always talk about their youth-playing days. It’s our job to make it a great experience!
Contact us at 704-299-4473 to learn more about our training, camps and clinics! At Guard U Basketball, we keep it fun!
