ATHLETES are often told that a competition is not about winning or losing, but rather about how they play the game and more importantly, how to be a team player.
The NBA Finals are here once again and there are lessons that we can learn from watching a game. Rainbow shots that we make in our lives, raise our adrenaline that we oftentimes think our goals are just within reach. When we hurdle some difficulties, it is likened to making a three pointer, turning us into overnight sensations. How about that slam dunk? It does not only make a statement. It is some kind of validation.
“Not in my house.” We commit a foul here and there, trying to prevent our opponent from scoring. It is okay as long as it’s not a flagrant one. All is fair in a game. It is when the intention is bad that a player is escorted back to the locker room. Outside the basketball court, when you commit a crime, you face the consequence of your action.
A basketball enthusiast can easily spot a dirty player. There are a few of them in a professional league. However, after penalties and fines, the player gets the message. Play fair like everyone else in the team. That is the beauty of the game. It is very transparent, unlike politics in our country where there are so many undercurrent maneuvers.
Playing basketball is just like how life plays out in front of us during our reflective moments. We have all the guidelines and the skills, yet it all depends on how we play it through. As one sports commentator puts it: “Timing is just as important as accuracy.” If I may add, just as important is making split-second decisions.
I see the frustration painted on the face of a player when he turns over the ball to the opponent. Nevertheless, he moves on and later impresses his teammates with a reverse lay-up.
Rebounds continue to be a learning experience. You learn to deal with the chance at hand. A fade away shot is a classic move. It is also a reminder that an athlete’s stardom has a time limit. Every star, sooner or later, loses his brilliance and slowly fades away. So while you are still up there radiating, be a model to your fans and leave a legacy no one will ever forget.
San Miguel Beermen hardcourt star June Mar Fajardo, a Cebuano, is still my favorite player. I hope every basketball player will remember what he said: “I learned to be patient.” That was his remark, after being clobbered here and there by players who played rough.