2 answers
Joshua
Student
Imperial, California
3
Questions
Asked
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How can I focus more on what I need to do,and control everything for my path to become a professional basketball player?
I am 14 and play basketball
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2 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I think you are tracking towards the correct philosophy.
John Wooden, the legendary coach of UCLA, who won 10 NCAA basketball titles and created the famous Pyramid of Success, once said "focus on those things that you can control in your life, those things that you can improve, correct and change...and ignore those things you cannot control."
So, things like skills, fundamentals, practice, work ethic, industriousness, attitude and enthusiasm, working hard in the classroom, developing your academic skills and getting into a good college....these are the life elements that are in your control.
What other people are thinking, what other people are doing in their lives, even an opposing players size or height...those are out of your control. Wooden emphasized that you should never focus on what other people are doing, but "focus on those fundamentals and skills that you need to do, in order to improve."
So, dribbling, passing skills, speed acquisition drills, shooting drills, conditioning, strengthening exercises, endurance training, and the time dedicated to them...those are all skills and elements that can be acquired, and are in your control.
John Wooden, the legendary coach of UCLA, who won 10 NCAA basketball titles and created the famous Pyramid of Success, once said "focus on those things that you can control in your life, those things that you can improve, correct and change...and ignore those things you cannot control."
So, things like skills, fundamentals, practice, work ethic, industriousness, attitude and enthusiasm, working hard in the classroom, developing your academic skills and getting into a good college....these are the life elements that are in your control.
What other people are thinking, what other people are doing in their lives, even an opposing players size or height...those are out of your control. Wooden emphasized that you should never focus on what other people are doing, but "focus on those fundamentals and skills that you need to do, in order to improve."
So, dribbling, passing skills, speed acquisition drills, shooting drills, conditioning, strengthening exercises, endurance training, and the time dedicated to them...those are all skills and elements that can be acquired, and are in your control.
Naim Rahaim
Basketball Coach, Sports Analytics, Athletic Director
32
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Naim’s Answer
Dear Joshua,
Your dream of becoming a professional basketball player is a noble one, and your dedication to this pursuit is commendable. To help you stay focused and navigate your journey, here are some empowering strategies:
Define Your Goals: Create SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. Break down your ultimate aim of making it to the NBA into smaller, achievable tasks like honing specific skills, boosting your fitness level, or gaining recognition through competitions.
Establish a Routine: Develop a daily regimen that includes basketball practice, physical conditioning, mental preparation, and rest. Consistency is the backbone of progress, so adhere to your routine even on days when motivation might be waning.
Sharpen Your Skills: Pinpoint areas in your game that need enhancement and devote concentrated practice sessions to these. This could be shooting drills, dribbling exercises, defensive strategies, or analyzing game footage to glean insights from the pros.
Maintain Physical Fitness: Basketball demands top physical form, so make your fitness routine a priority. Include strength training, cardio workouts, flexibility exercises, and a balanced diet in your routine to boost your performance and ward off injuries.
Use Time Effectively: Balance your basketball ambitions with other responsibilities like school, work, or family. Prioritize tasks, delegate when you can, and eliminate distractions to maximize your time.
Find Mentors: Surround yourself with coaches, trainers, and mentors who can offer invaluable advice, support, and feedback. Learn from seasoned players and coaches who have successfully tread the path to professional basketball.
Cultivate Mental Resilience: Realize that hurdles and setbacks are part and parcel of the journey to success. Foster mental toughness, resilience, and a positive attitude to surmount challenges, stay focused, and keep moving forward.
Visualize Success: Picture yourself achieving your goals and playing at the highest level. Employ visualization techniques to boost confidence, motivation, and performance on the court.
Seek Exposure Opportunities: Engage in basketball camps, showcases, tournaments, and leagues to display your talent and get noticed by scouts, coaches, and recruiters. Network with professionals in the basketball world and create a highlight reel to showcase your skills.
Stay Committed and Determined: Remain dedicated to your goal of becoming a professional basketball player, and don't let setbacks or rejections deter you. Keep a relentless work ethic, be receptive to feedback, and continuously strive for improvement.
Remember, the road to the NBA is demanding and requires commitment, effort, and tenacity. Stay focused on your path, control what you can, and have faith in your potential to realize your dreams.
Wishing you the best on your journey to professional basketball!
Warm regards,
Naim Rahaim
Your dream of becoming a professional basketball player is a noble one, and your dedication to this pursuit is commendable. To help you stay focused and navigate your journey, here are some empowering strategies:
Define Your Goals: Create SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. Break down your ultimate aim of making it to the NBA into smaller, achievable tasks like honing specific skills, boosting your fitness level, or gaining recognition through competitions.
Establish a Routine: Develop a daily regimen that includes basketball practice, physical conditioning, mental preparation, and rest. Consistency is the backbone of progress, so adhere to your routine even on days when motivation might be waning.
Sharpen Your Skills: Pinpoint areas in your game that need enhancement and devote concentrated practice sessions to these. This could be shooting drills, dribbling exercises, defensive strategies, or analyzing game footage to glean insights from the pros.
Maintain Physical Fitness: Basketball demands top physical form, so make your fitness routine a priority. Include strength training, cardio workouts, flexibility exercises, and a balanced diet in your routine to boost your performance and ward off injuries.
Use Time Effectively: Balance your basketball ambitions with other responsibilities like school, work, or family. Prioritize tasks, delegate when you can, and eliminate distractions to maximize your time.
Find Mentors: Surround yourself with coaches, trainers, and mentors who can offer invaluable advice, support, and feedback. Learn from seasoned players and coaches who have successfully tread the path to professional basketball.
Cultivate Mental Resilience: Realize that hurdles and setbacks are part and parcel of the journey to success. Foster mental toughness, resilience, and a positive attitude to surmount challenges, stay focused, and keep moving forward.
Visualize Success: Picture yourself achieving your goals and playing at the highest level. Employ visualization techniques to boost confidence, motivation, and performance on the court.
Seek Exposure Opportunities: Engage in basketball camps, showcases, tournaments, and leagues to display your talent and get noticed by scouts, coaches, and recruiters. Network with professionals in the basketball world and create a highlight reel to showcase your skills.
Stay Committed and Determined: Remain dedicated to your goal of becoming a professional basketball player, and don't let setbacks or rejections deter you. Keep a relentless work ethic, be receptive to feedback, and continuously strive for improvement.
Remember, the road to the NBA is demanding and requires commitment, effort, and tenacity. Stay focused on your path, control what you can, and have faith in your potential to realize your dreams.
Wishing you the best on your journey to professional basketball!
Warm regards,
Naim Rahaim