The three Ls of basketball are: like, love, and live it.
Do you like it?
Ah, the "like it" phase. This is where most casual Hoopers hang their jerseys. You enjoy shooting hoops but are just as likely to trade practice for a PlayStation binge with friends. Your commitment? Moderate. Please think of the high school student who shows up for practice but also has a hot date with the latest TikTok trends and will allow distractions to step in and possibly derail their pursuit of greatness. They are more into scoring points in social circles than on the actual scoreboard.
Do you love it?
Now we are talking! Those who "love it" treat basketball like a significant other—dedicating time, energy, and maybe a few late-night push-ups and squats to build their body and work on their game. They watch games religiously, analyze plays like those that they are studying for finals, and enjoy running drills. Think college athletes who live and breathe basketball, dreaming of making it to the big leagues—or at least the local sports bar’s trivia night. (This is the stage where kids want the attention of the game more than the work.)
Do You Live It?
Welcome “live it" players; breathe basketball 24/7, eat, and sleep it. For them and their families, the court is not just a place to play; it is their refuge. They train with total commitment and analyze every game as if it is a math equation; getting 5% better daily is the goal. This is the territory of aspiring pros and high-level players, often making sacrifices to sleep, social life, and distractions to reach what they ultimately aspire to become.
To accomplish a goal of this magnitude, there must be a healthy obsession with living the process. So, whether you are casually tossing around a ball or plotting your path to become a collegiate player, remember: "Like It" is for casual fans, "Love It" is for committed players, and "Live It" is for the consistently committed Hooper’s. Just don’t forget to enjoy the journey—because every level has its unique perks and promises as well as opportunities, so whatever level you wish to play, raise yourself above and continue to get better at figuring out which “L” you fit into as an athlete or family member.
