Basketball has been a big part of my life, from dribbling in the basement with my ball, to the form shots, the video watching, and the entertainment on my TV screen. It started as something fun and something to do in my free time, but over time it became important to me and who I am. The sport itself has taught me a lot. Basketball has taught me discipline, patience, and how to keep working no matter what obstacles you face. It’s been a part of me growing as a person, from a kid who didn’t talk much, to a person who allowed himself to use the sport to talk more and become a leader.
In life you will face challenges but if you stay consistent, motivated, and believe, you can learn from your challenges. And just like life, basketball comes with challenges, but it is important to focus on your goals, chase your dreams and set life-term goals and surround yourself with success. As I grew older and found a real passion for basketball, It made me realize if I could play hard, keep working, and don’t stop even if I’m doubted. But to me it’s hard to manage life outside of basketball, starting with dealing with friends, family and school. Having a lot around you can affect you and your mental health, and I realized that when anything was affecting me, the only thing that could clear my mind was basketball.
As my love for the game grew, one player I watched had my attention, Kyrie Irving. A lot of people know him for his insanely good handles and his incredible finishing ability. I know of that as well, but the smallest thing is what catches my eye. What makes him special to me is the way he thinks Errol’s the game of basketball and life. His influence has shaped the way I play, the way I think, and even how I overcome challenges.
I’ve watched Kyrie play since I first started playing basketball. At first, I didn’t really understand everything I was just watching. I just knew he was a game changer in this sport. From watching videos on how to dribble like Kyrie, and to finish like Kyrie, and how to play like Kyrie. And when I was watching those videos about him, it was so creative and the moves were effective, so I would try to learn and study him.
Kyrie’s been my main inspiration for basketball and basketball is a big part of my life, which has his influence play a big part on me. Even the smallest details I see from him impacts me, and those details are crucial. His mindset mental health wise shows me how to handle life and basketball at the same time, seeing in 2020 how he questioned the NBA restart so it wouldn’t take attention from Black Lives Matter just shows a lot about his character.
Replaying that clutch game sealing shot from game 7 of 2016 NBA finals, it was something exciting to watch, a lot of people overlook it because of LeBron’s block on Andre Igudola, that was a crucial play but in my eyes, Kyrie’s play mattered more than a lot of people think.
Before I finish, I want to thank this player who has made an impact on me bigger than he probably realizes.
Kyrie,
This is for you.
Thank you for inspiring me to become a better basketball player and a better person.
Ronald Houston – De La Salle Institute – DMSF Class of 2030
Photo Credit: shurikschukin – Pixabay