Poise Under Pressure

Remaining calm and poised under pressure is an ESSENTIAL skill for basketball players at all levels.

‍

This game presents athletes with extremely high pressure situations. Your child must be ready and prepared to face these types of situations in order to continuously advance in the sport.

Being poised at all times allows players to perform at the very peak of their potential; regardless of the situation.When poise is combined with high level skill, it creates a lethal combination.

Don’t get me wrong - poise is not the absence of aggression, rather it is calculated aggression. Players need to be prepared to attack, however there must be a balance, and this is where poise and composure come into play.

‍

‍

Being poised allows players to FOCUS entirely on what needs to be done in order to win. Distractions from any other external source becomes irrelevant; that’s why having poise is so powerful.

What are some ways that you can help your young athlete become more poised?

1- Deep breathing exercises before games

2- Visualization exercises to anticipate what they may see during games

3- Proper preparation through repetition (we are always more poised when we feel ready)

4- High Pressure + Competitive drills

This is not an exhaustive list, but it is a great starting point as far as some ways to develop more poise.