On Hiding From the Ball, When to Quit, and How to Become a Real Student

Dec. 15 | The 3-Point Play

BASKETBALL TEACHING
One of the biggest faults of most players is their failure to come to the ball against pressure.

“Hiding” is more relaxing, and that is what players tend to do.

Few players realize how often they hide. They seem to be readily available when no help is needed, but where are they when the going gets tough?

If the ball is being double-teamed, or if your teammate has picked up their dribble and the defender is all over them—if you aren’t ten feet from the ball, then you are hiding.

Don’t hide. Run to the ball.

There are dozens of baskets to be scored out there on the courts just waiting for you to come out of hiding.

― Dick DeVenzio
Founder of PGC Basketball

LIFE LESSON
There is nothing wrong with quitting when you are merely making an intelligent choice for a better use of your time.

EDUCATIONAL TIP
Scholars are proud of their efforts just like athletes. They strive for excellence in a library just like athletes do in the gym or on the field.  

If you don’t currently have a sense of what it’s like to be a real student, try this:

Try just walking around like a real student. Walk into class like someone who is eager to learn – even if you aren’t – and take some notes as though you want to be able to recall that information later – even if you don’t. 

Sit and look the teacher in the eye and pretend, if necessary, that the things in your book are of great interest. 

Acting like a real student makes it easier to be a real student. 

And regardless of what some of your friends may think, anyone who spends many hours a day in school ought to find a way to enjoy that time and make the most of it.