Basketball should be simple, that is how it was intended to be when it was invented. When you play, all that is worried about is the ball, the hoop, the court, and yourself. Now a days, basketball has become more complicated than that. What I mean is that basketball isn’t about the present moment anymore. People start involving their sports with social media, worry about the level of competition they are in, worry about keeping their steak, wins, losses, slumps, records, status with others, rankings, etc. This is what we call “hype” or “fan mentality”. These people are more worried about “what should happen” compared “the present moment”. They are a fan and want to be educated in every way possible on the game they are about to watch. Since you are an athlete, the only worry should be what is in front of you. Leave the worrying about statistics to the fans.  

 

It is nearly impossible to avoid these statistics. There is always going to be someone talking about it, a website with the information, a coach comparing teams, etc. to remove yourself from the “hype” is all about your reaction. When someone brings up this “hype”, think of positive ways to respond. Here are some ways to respond to the fan mentality.

 

    1. Frequently checking rankings. Stay off the computer after the game is over. If anyone talks about it, give a 24 hour rule. No one is allowed to talk about basketball until 24 hours has passed from the game.
    2. Constantly looking at brackets. Do not enter the room with the brackets. If you see it, look at it once and don’t look at it again.
    3. Someone asks your shooting %. Let them know you did not keep track, basketball is more than just scoring. Tell them about your awesome defense, how you blocked the ball, or saved the ball from going out of bounce.
    4. Watch opponents games regularly. Watch the game once and only once. Watch how they play but focus on how you will beat them with your skills.
    5. Someone predicting a future game. “Anything is possible. Not everything is set in stone because of the past!”

 

 

 

Written by:

 

Sarah Grippi

Basketball Mindset

 

Category: Basketball