Ever since a young age, I have been intrigued by basketball. This exciting team sport seemed to have everything I look for in a sport. Encompassing aspects ranging from the atmosphere of a game to the required skills or vertigo, control and agility; basketball called my name. In season 2 sports at UWCSEA, I tried out for basketball. After making the under 16 A team and being appointed captain, I was ready for an eventful season ahead. Throughout the season I learnt many things about basketball, collaboration and fitness that has helped my overall wellbeing and love for the sport.

Basketball is a complex and fast-paced sport meaning as you become more skilled there are many more aspects within the sport you are exposed to, such as a shot-clock and other rules. Beyond these technicalities, however, I learnt more about basketball and the flow of the game then I had in the past. Learning the plays in practice helped me become more fluent and responsive in game. When previously I would be stuck when handing the ball in an offensive play, now I am able to adapt to my teammates and position myself and my pass in a way the contributes to the goal; to score. Although this seems like a small step, it largely increases my enjoyment and understanding of the game. I am able to watch NBA and professionals play, and observe their movements closer and understand their plays. This development has helped me play with my brother and his friends in a pick-up game because I am more flexible and responsive to my strategies.

Being the co-captain of the team, I had to take on a certain amount of leadership position within and out of practice, encouraging the team to be organised and focused. One thing that was new to me was the position in the game, I had to take in order to push my team further and help us stay responsive and active throughout the whole game. Communication on the court was one thing that we lacked at the start of the season, however as our bonded, with the help of myself and Mehul, we were able to talk and plan on the court. It was these communicative skills that lead me to win the ‘spirit of sport’ and ‘athletes award’ in the Season 2 Sports Recognition Evening.

This was my first year playing in a High School Basketball ACSIS and one thing that stood out to me was the level of athletic ability on the court, and the importance of speed and stamina throughout a basketball game. Particularly evident in the FASTBREAK CBL league I play in. An athletic team can outrun and tire a slower team even with marginal skills. This was how basketball has helped me improve my fitness (relating to my NYAA goal) because after realising this advantage of stamina, I began to run outside of practice and take strides in improving my fitness in order to compliment my basketball.

Overall, this season was very enjoyable and lead me to sign up for Fastbreak outside of school. I am excited to continue pursuing basketball in the future.