5 answers
Akarrus
Student
2
Questions
Asked
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What does it take for me to be a basketball player?
Of course I know how to play the game of basketball, I've just been scared to express myself and get physical with other players. You can say that I am scared in a way. I play amazing in front of my friends but, with people I be scared and crazy nervous. I want to learn how to express myself on and off the court. #professional-sports, #basketball
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5 answers
Michael Lee
Sports Media Librarian Sports Streaming
19
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi,
I recommend you train, hit the gym, and get stronger. You should play with your friends and with other kids. Try being physical playing with other kids at a park. The more you try to be physical with other kids in a non competitive place like a park you will gain more confidence.
Keep trying. You will get mire confident. Over time you won't have to think about this anymore. It will be natural
I recommend you train, hit the gym, and get stronger. You should play with your friends and with other kids. Try being physical playing with other kids at a park. The more you try to be physical with other kids in a non competitive place like a park you will gain more confidence.
Keep trying. You will get mire confident. Over time you won't have to think about this anymore. It will be natural
Janay Wilson
Field Engineer
2
Answers
Long Beach, California
Updated
Janay’s Answer
Confidence is key.
Growing up I was a very shy kid, kept to myself a lot, and didn't speak much with others, but once I discovered sports (specifically basketball), I became a completely different kid. Basketball allowed me to express myself and let go of all my worries. When I was on the court, I didn't see anything outside of the lines. Basketball gave me confidence I never knew I had.
My first piece of advice is just be comfortable with what you're doing and in order to do that, you have to be comfortable with your skillset...that means practice, practice, practice. You have to be willing to practice even when no one tells you to. Once you become comfortable with the game, you'll simultaneously become comfortable on the court and there won't be a need to be afraid because you already know and trust yourself. If you're not confident in what you're doing, you will always be worried about what people will think.
At the same time, once I became comfortable with the game, I became comfortable with myself both on and off the court. I learned how to take the same work ethic in basketball and apply it to life. The more I practiced, the more confident I became. The more confident I became, I became a better player. The better player I became, caused more people to notice me both on and off the court, and being recognized as a solid ball player both on and off the court, gave me confidence in life to walk with my head high.
Second piece of advice, is DON'T OVER THINK. Get out of your own head and just let the game come to you.
Third piece of advice, is HAVE FUN. If you're not having fun, you'll never be able to fully enjoy the joys of the game. Don't put too much pressure on yourself, you also want to enjoy what you are doing.
So, long story short, practice and confidence is KEY and I know everyone's goal is to make it as a professional basketball player, but most look over the fact that getting a full ride scholarship to attend college while playing basketball is ALSO a major goal. Graduating debt free from college is such a big deal and something not to be looked over, keep that in mind throughout your career!
Growing up I was a very shy kid, kept to myself a lot, and didn't speak much with others, but once I discovered sports (specifically basketball), I became a completely different kid. Basketball allowed me to express myself and let go of all my worries. When I was on the court, I didn't see anything outside of the lines. Basketball gave me confidence I never knew I had.
My first piece of advice is just be comfortable with what you're doing and in order to do that, you have to be comfortable with your skillset...that means practice, practice, practice. You have to be willing to practice even when no one tells you to. Once you become comfortable with the game, you'll simultaneously become comfortable on the court and there won't be a need to be afraid because you already know and trust yourself. If you're not confident in what you're doing, you will always be worried about what people will think.
At the same time, once I became comfortable with the game, I became comfortable with myself both on and off the court. I learned how to take the same work ethic in basketball and apply it to life. The more I practiced, the more confident I became. The more confident I became, I became a better player. The better player I became, caused more people to notice me both on and off the court, and being recognized as a solid ball player both on and off the court, gave me confidence in life to walk with my head high.
Second piece of advice, is DON'T OVER THINK. Get out of your own head and just let the game come to you.
Third piece of advice, is HAVE FUN. If you're not having fun, you'll never be able to fully enjoy the joys of the game. Don't put too much pressure on yourself, you also want to enjoy what you are doing.
So, long story short, practice and confidence is KEY and I know everyone's goal is to make it as a professional basketball player, but most look over the fact that getting a full ride scholarship to attend college while playing basketball is ALSO a major goal. Graduating debt free from college is such a big deal and something not to be looked over, keep that in mind throughout your career!
Samuel Knight
Regional Marketing Manager
5
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Samuel’s Answer
Hi Akarrus!
It's great that you've identified the goal of becoming a better and more confident basketball player. Although extremely difficult to reach the highest levels, striving to achieve this valuable goal will help you learn so much about confidence building, your learning style, and the importance of preparation that you can use in every aspect of your life.
Lisa and Michael made great recommendations to play the game as much as you can. Play everyday, whether by yourself or with friends, play everyday for any amount of time. My next recommendation would be to list out all the things it will take to be great then explain how you'll try to improve in each way. For example, if one goal is to play everyday, you can explain that you'll pick some days to play with friends and some days to workout by yourself and work on the finer details of the game. Another example would be trying to understand the game and increase your Basketball IQ (Intelligence). You could achieve that goal by reading books and listening to videos/podcasts to hear some of the greatest players and their story or approach to basketball.
A few books come to mind that could help build your confidence and understanding: Mamba Mentality by Kobe Bryant and Relentless by Tim S. Grover. Hearing how to succeed from the greatest players of all time will certainly benefit you.
Always remember - the more you know, the more confident you'll become.
Good luck and I hope this helps!
Sam
It's great that you've identified the goal of becoming a better and more confident basketball player. Although extremely difficult to reach the highest levels, striving to achieve this valuable goal will help you learn so much about confidence building, your learning style, and the importance of preparation that you can use in every aspect of your life.
Lisa and Michael made great recommendations to play the game as much as you can. Play everyday, whether by yourself or with friends, play everyday for any amount of time. My next recommendation would be to list out all the things it will take to be great then explain how you'll try to improve in each way. For example, if one goal is to play everyday, you can explain that you'll pick some days to play with friends and some days to workout by yourself and work on the finer details of the game. Another example would be trying to understand the game and increase your Basketball IQ (Intelligence). You could achieve that goal by reading books and listening to videos/podcasts to hear some of the greatest players and their story or approach to basketball.
A few books come to mind that could help build your confidence and understanding: Mamba Mentality by Kobe Bryant and Relentless by Tim S. Grover. Hearing how to succeed from the greatest players of all time will certainly benefit you.
Always remember - the more you know, the more confident you'll become.
Good luck and I hope this helps!
Sam
Lisa Simpson
Marketing Director
6
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Confidence plays a HUGE part in competitive sports.
Do you play on your school team or an AAU team? That is really where you start to build confidence in your skills.
The stronger you get, the less you will fear the physicality of the sport. My son plays basketball and when he realized he was just as strong as many of the other boys on the court, he began to play much more aggressively.
If you are serious about playing basketball, you have to take the steps to train, play on a team, practice on your own, learn the intricacies of the game, master the basics, take care of your body (eat properly and work-out (that includes lifting weights)). Being an elite athlete requires a great deal of sacrifice. If you really want it, go for it but understand, it requires a lot of work. As do most things worth having.
Good luck to you!
Do you play on your school team or an AAU team? That is really where you start to build confidence in your skills.
The stronger you get, the less you will fear the physicality of the sport. My son plays basketball and when he realized he was just as strong as many of the other boys on the court, he began to play much more aggressively.
If you are serious about playing basketball, you have to take the steps to train, play on a team, practice on your own, learn the intricacies of the game, master the basics, take care of your body (eat properly and work-out (that includes lifting weights)). Being an elite athlete requires a great deal of sacrifice. If you really want it, go for it but understand, it requires a lot of work. As do most things worth having.
Good luck to you!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6075
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Akarrus,
Here's a step-by-step guide to transition from college to professional basketball:
1. Skill Enhancement: Boost your chances of turning pro by relentlessly honing your basketball skills. Regular practice, focusing on shooting, dribbling, defense, and overall game intelligence, is crucial. Don't forget to work on your physical attributes - speed, strength, and agility - as well.
2. Make Your Mark in College: Even if freshmen aren't immediately in the spotlight, it's vital to leave a lasting impression during your college basketball tenure. Consistently deliver strong performances, display your skills to coaches and scouts, and be a team player. Also, keep your academic performance up, as many pro teams appreciate players who show discipline both on and off the court.
3. Build Connections and Gain Visibility: Networking is key in professional sports. Participate in basketball camps, showcases, and tournaments where scouts and agents might be watching. Use social media to showcase your skills and accomplishments. Forming relationships with coaches, fellow players, and industry insiders can pave the way to new opportunities.
4. Procure Professional Assistance: Think about engaging a sports agent or advisor with basketball industry experience. They can offer valuable insights, guide you through the intricate world of professional sports, negotiate contracts for you, and introduce you to the right people to advance your career.
5. Maintain Dedication and Resilience: The journey to becoming a pro basketball player demands commitment, hard work, and resilience. Stick to your training routine, stay goal-oriented, and don't let setbacks or rejections deter you. Keep striving to get better and never abandon your dream.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used for this Guide:
1. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA): The NCAA, a renowned body governing college athletics in the US, provides crucial guidelines and regulations for college basketball programs. Their resources can offer valuable insights into eligibility requirements for aspiring professional players.
2. National Basketball Association (NBA): As the world's leading professional basketball league, the NBA's talent evaluation and recruitment standards are insightful for understanding what it takes to become a pro.
3. Professional Basketball Agents/Agencies: Consulting with reputable sports agents or agencies specializing in basketball can provide personalized advice aligned with your career goals. Their industry insider knowledge can help you smoothly transition from college basketball to the professional level.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine.
Here's a step-by-step guide to transition from college to professional basketball:
1. Skill Enhancement: Boost your chances of turning pro by relentlessly honing your basketball skills. Regular practice, focusing on shooting, dribbling, defense, and overall game intelligence, is crucial. Don't forget to work on your physical attributes - speed, strength, and agility - as well.
2. Make Your Mark in College: Even if freshmen aren't immediately in the spotlight, it's vital to leave a lasting impression during your college basketball tenure. Consistently deliver strong performances, display your skills to coaches and scouts, and be a team player. Also, keep your academic performance up, as many pro teams appreciate players who show discipline both on and off the court.
3. Build Connections and Gain Visibility: Networking is key in professional sports. Participate in basketball camps, showcases, and tournaments where scouts and agents might be watching. Use social media to showcase your skills and accomplishments. Forming relationships with coaches, fellow players, and industry insiders can pave the way to new opportunities.
4. Procure Professional Assistance: Think about engaging a sports agent or advisor with basketball industry experience. They can offer valuable insights, guide you through the intricate world of professional sports, negotiate contracts for you, and introduce you to the right people to advance your career.
5. Maintain Dedication and Resilience: The journey to becoming a pro basketball player demands commitment, hard work, and resilience. Stick to your training routine, stay goal-oriented, and don't let setbacks or rejections deter you. Keep striving to get better and never abandon your dream.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used for this Guide:
1. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA): The NCAA, a renowned body governing college athletics in the US, provides crucial guidelines and regulations for college basketball programs. Their resources can offer valuable insights into eligibility requirements for aspiring professional players.
2. National Basketball Association (NBA): As the world's leading professional basketball league, the NBA's talent evaluation and recruitment standards are insightful for understanding what it takes to become a pro.
3. Professional Basketball Agents/Agencies: Consulting with reputable sports agents or agencies specializing in basketball can provide personalized advice aligned with your career goals. Their industry insider knowledge can help you smoothly transition from college basketball to the professional level.
Stay blessed!
James Constantine.