In sports, we cannot control the climate in the gym, the crowd noise, the lighting, or whom we play. Our job is to control what we can - our attitude, our choices, and our effort.
Although it takes athleticism and skill to succeed in sports, the greatest determinants of success are having a successful process working to develop continual improvement. The process doesn't mean just showing up for practice on time or going through the pre-game warm-up. It includes doing your class work conscientiously so you're not distracted on the court, getting your rest, eating properly, encouraging teammates, and having positive thoughts to focus on each individual play or possession in your sport.
Kevin Sivils writes about developing an award on his team (voted on by players) for the best teammate. It's not given necessarily to the best player, the highest scorer, or by any statistical measure. The players simply choose whom they consider the best teammate. Imagine playing on a team where players make being the best teammate their goal.
As a player, you need to find the optimal level of intensity at which you play. Low energy or excessive energy relate to performance deterioration. That might include the choice of music you play, the volume its played, yoga, meditation, or other pre-game routines.
But whatever your preparation, the rubber meets the road at 7:00 tonight.
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