There’s always that one player you absolutely can’t stand.
More so than anyone else.
They get in your head without even saying anything.
Their presence alone pisses you off.
They play physical. Full speed the entire game. And never lower their intensity.
You absolutely hate their guts, but their teammates seem to love ‘em.
Let me fill you in on a little secret….
Aim to be that player.
Players That Fit This Mold
Ray Lewis
Offensive players were filled with fear knowing #52 was lining up across from them.
He never backed down from any challenge and wore his heart on his sleeve.
A passionate leader and elite performer.
Some players are just built different from a young age. Ray Lewis fits that description.
Let’s take a look at a player that is more relatable.
Pat Beverley
Beverley is not an overly talented player by any description.
But it’s his hustle and heart that got him to where he is today.
His teammates know that he will give it his all every game.
Point guards hate going up against Pat Bev.
Do opposing teams say that about you?
My Definition of an Elite Player
An elite player is someone you hate to go up against.
Think about that for a second. Let it soak in. Contemplate that statement.
Let me ask you again…are you that player?
If not, that’s ok – you got some work to do like 99% of other players.
Why My Definition Is True
An elite player isn’t always the most talented player.
But they’re elite because they bring something to the table that pisses off opponents, garners their teammates approval, and makes them “must-haves” for coaches.
In the pros, it makes them big bucks. (Pat Bev is going to make $13.3M next year)
There is always a reason you hate playing against a certain player. And 9/10 it’s because they’re really good at what they do. 1/10 it’s because they’re dirty.
Whether it’s scoring, their physicality, defense, hustle, passing, etc…
That player is elite because you go into the game knowing a battle is coming.
Recruiting
Coaches want to recruit players that are elite.
By becoming this type of player you’ll attract the attention of college coaches.
They love players with an “it” factor.
How to Become Elite
Find ways to bring more value to your teammates and instill fear in to your opponents.
Do what you do really well. Honing in on your best skills maximizes the value of a player.
There are certain players you hate going against just because of how good they are at one thing. Whether’s that face-offs, cut blocks, 3-pointers, or turning double plays.
And the number one way to become elite is by always giving 100% effort.
A player that never backs down, never takes their foot off the gas, and attacks the whole game is an opponents worst nightmare.
IT’S ALL IN YOUR MIND AND HEART!
Go make it happen.
