This is a quote from Michael Jordan that was presented to me as a framed gift when I graduated high school. It resonated with me (and still does today) because it put into words what I always thought and felt. Maybe it resonates with you as well…
“The basketball court is still my refuge; even when the season ends, it’s the place that I can go and find answers. It’s like I can go and talk to the game because I know it’s going to give me a response. “
“I’ve done that my entire life. When I was a kid and mad at my parents, I’d go out and play the game of basketball.”
“I’d try to give myself some confidence at a time when maybe I thought no one had confidence in me.”
“If I had a problem, or if something was bothering me, I’d go play and somehow I always seemed to come up with an answer.”
“That’s where I go when I need to go somewhere.”
Michael Jordan
I was inspired by this post to spend a little time on the court today, solo. One of my favorite things to do, but one which I don't get to do as often as I would like to. These words of MJ definitely hit home with me as well. I had just finished working out someone, and instead of just heading home to handle my other work, I felt the need to hang out a little longer and have some fun shooting around. What typically ends up happening though, I set up some type of challenge for myself. For example, not leaving the court until you make 10 game speed jumpers in a row. I feel that challenges such as this, help make the time spent on the court as productive as possible. I also feel that if a young baller does the same, they will notice the improvements in their overall game. Thanks for the post.
I agree Mike, it's amazing how many times in my life I have gone to the court alone, and the creative juices start flowing. Even now, after my official playing days are far from over, it's a safe haven for me. And even if I'm just going there to shoot around for a bit, I always end up doing just as you said, creating some sort of challenge for myself before I leave the court. There's no place like home.
bt