There is a great scene in the film ‘The Untouchables’ where Al Capone, played by Robert De Niro discussed enthusiasm. It’s a classic scene. We continue with our 90 Day Basketball Improvement Plan.
Day 33 – Enthusiasm
Enthusiasm is sometimes taken for granted in the game of basketball and in other sports. I still don’t know why some players don’t get excited when they step on the court or field? They are playing a game!?! Do you ever see players who have zero energy? They play slow, are bad defenders and refuse to sprint up and down the court. Their body language is bad. Their lack of enthusiasm can suck the life out of everyone around them.
You have to be enthusiastic when it comes to working out. You have to be excited when you walk on the floor to practice and when it comes game time, you need to play like your hair is on fire! You can’t take 15 minutes to get ready for a workout. I have seen kids who walk slowly into the gym, take a long time getting their shoes on and ready to play and then lack enthusiasm while they play or work out. They are usually the first ones to leave too.
I have witnessed players show up to practice uninspired, not willing to go hard and showing ‘zero’ enthusiasm. In order to have any progress with your game, enthusiasm is a critical quality. During the game you should give everything you have; there should never be a time during the game you don’t go hard. Same goes for practice and workouts.
“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
Thanks to Coach Finamore
