5 Lessons I Have Learned as a Pro-Athlete
Anything is possible.
I am a 6’1” kid from Santa Barbara, California. I started with a simple dream and turned it into my reality. Dreams can be realized. While I strongly believe in the idea of “right place at the right time,” I also believe that hard work and dedication can put you in a lot of the right places. Some people think that you need to be “realistic” about the dreams you have. I think we need to dream bigger. Develop the habit of working hard toward the things you believe in. Work toward improvement each day. Be the first person to believe in yourself, your capabilities, and your dreams.
2. Success through adaptation.
Having lived in over ten countries and played for many teams, it’s easy to see that every league is different, every coach, every country. One of the cornerstones to my success is being authentically me. Another cornerstone is being open to new things, new ideas, and the ability to adapt with an open mind. I have played with many players that countdown the days till they get to go home, back to the States. Not me, my success is found in loving my environment and feeling thankful to have the opportunity to play the game I love and experience new things. This way I am able to focus on where I am and what I am doing, instead of where I’m not.
3. There is always a chance to inspire.
Being a pro basketball player has always been my dream. I often remind myself that this is the same dream that millions of kids have from all around the world. I use this perspective to always work hard and not take my life for granted. With so many people aiming to be a pro in some type of sport, there are always eyes on the ones that have achieved it. There is a beautiful responsibility to these kids, these dreamers, if you use your position to promote positivity and inspiration.
4. It’s not for everyone
Everyone loves the games, the bright lights, and the “idea” of being a pro athlete. Most people watch their favorite players on TV or see them on the street, and watch in admiration. What they don't see is what usually separates the pros from the rest of the people “wanting” to be one. The long practices, the weekend tournaments, the travel days, and the extra film sessions. The daily sacrifices that athletes make to become the competitors that you see on game day. There is always someone wanting what you have, someone working hard, and someone fighting for your job. There is always pressure to win, pressure to produce, and extra weight added to your shoulders. This life is not for everyone, and when you become a pro, you will find out quickly if this life is meant for you, or not.
5. It’s a business.
The world of professional sports is not about fair or unfair, it’s not about what you deserve or what you think you have earned. The unfortunate reality I see around me, after 14 years as a pro, is that many players have lost the childlike love of the game. The business is hard to stay away from, a good agent can help shield you from most of the bad parts, but the business soaks in. Agents, coaches, managers, getting cut, getting replaced, being offered less than you deserve. Long seasons, injuries, and setbacks. One example from my career came after 2 months with a team I was more than excited to be playing for. I was leading the team in points and assists, more importantly I was appreciated for my leadership and my attitude. The owner of the team even brought me to his apartment, not normal for this particular owner, where he spoke to me about the future and his desire to keep me with the club for many years. To make a long story short, and not bore you, the club changes coaches, and their love towards me changed with it. The new coach brought with him a new player in my position, and my role shifted drastically. Frustrating? Yes. Part of the business? Absolutely. You have speak with older players, understand the game that you’re in, and prepare for all outcomes. Meanwhile, work hard, and enjoy every minute that you have playing the game you love. Never loose the childlike passion and love for the game. .