The Difference Between Being a Player and Becoming a Player

The difference between being and becoming a player provides a strong lesson for all basketball players and athletes in general. The average sports fan believes that college and professional athletes are at their highest level of play. This idea has many flaws as witnessed by the constant work that Tiger Woods does with his swing. If Tiger says he has room to "become" a better golfer, what does that say about you?

The journey of a basketball player is like a slow climb up the Rocky Mountains. It begins slowly with small measures of success. Step by step effort turns into hours and hours of hard work and dedication. A look down the mountain makes you realize you are just beginning. Others with you may want to stop and accept where they are on the journey. Because you are committed, you keep climbing. Step after step, you climb with the resolve needed to be the best you can be.

The differences become obvious half way up the mountain. Some players declare they have arrived as a player, even if they are still young players. These players feel as if they ARE the player they strive to be. Each feels she is a "player" and their game is ready for anything. However, the committed climber knows that her journey has a long way to go. She knows that her game is a long ways from arriving at its peak! This player is what being dedicated to the game is all about.

The committed player is realistic, listens to her coach, and strives to be a little better each day. She is constantly "becoming” a player. Michael Jordan was a mountain climber of the greatest proportions. His game got better and better, regardless of the awards, NBA titles, and claims of being the best ever. His drive, heart, and personal pride did not allow him to stop "becoming” a player.

As a player, evaluate yourself and your drive to be your best. Do you believe you have arrived as a player? If so, be ready for the game and watch as other players to pass you by. When you stop improving mentally and physically, you become stagnant and ineffective.

Persevere with the commitment of a champion, you will gain the satisfaction of never being satisfied.

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