The Love of the Game

The opposing team just made a crucial shot to give them the lead by two with 20 seconds left in the game. Now, it was our possession and there were no timeouts left to strategize. Sweat was dripping down the side of my face, my heart was racing, but my mind was completely focused on nothing but the game at hand. As I dribbled the ball down the court, I looked for my teammates but all of them were heavily guarded by the opposing team. I noticed the girl, who was guarding me, gradually backing up as she was anticipating my move to drive to the basket; so instead I squared up with my feet behind the three-point line and with the game on the line, I took the shot. The entire gym, which was jam-packed, went totally silent. The ball didn’t even touch the rim, it went straight through, nothing but net. My team ran up to me and the stands erupted in celebration. I am far from a sore winner but seeing the opposing team, who were disappointed and heavy-hearted, added to the many sensational feelings and thoughts running throughout my body.

For most, basketball is just another sport or a pastime but to me, it is more than just a game. Basketball sets challenges for myself; there’s a great amount of pressure while playing. Am I going to drive to the basket for a layup or should I take the shot? Do I defend my opponent tightly or do I give her some space? Hundreds of options run through my head with only a couple seconds to decide; this has helped me to quickly think and act on situations. The inability to think on your feet is costly especially in basketball, it’ll be harder to make a shot or it will cause a turnover. A sport is sometimes considered a distraction, as it may result in absences or incomplete homework because practice ended la...

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...cisms and defeats which continually make me work harder to the victories and praises that show hard work pays off, it has helped build up my character and taught me to never give up. The competitive vibe feeds my soul. Basketball has not only helped me become a better player but also, a better person as a student, friend, girlfriend, daughter, and sister. The basis of all of that is commitment and I always tell myself a quote from LeBron James, “Commitment is a big part of what I am and what I believe. How committed are you to winning? How committed are you to being a good friend?” When you’re committed, you can expect success; not just on the court but within your personal relationships. From the blood, sweat, and tears to the laughters and joyous moments of sweet triumph, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Basketball is more than just a game, it is a way of life.