The basketball greats, including Pete Maravich, Jackie Stiles, Michael Jordan, and Larry Bird, all shared a common trait besides their scoring records – unwavering dedication to practice. This commitment has also been key to the exceptional skill displayed by Caitlin Clark in her effortless execution of logo threes.
Michael Jordan’s early experience of being cut from his high school basketball team as a sophomore is a well-known fact. Similarly, Larry Bird overcame physical limitations of speed and agility to become one of the NBA’s greatest players. These legendary individuals attribute their success to the countless hours spent refining their abilities on the court.
For high school students aspiring to compete at an elite level, simply waiting until the season commences to pick up a basketball is insufficient. Rigorous practice is an essential component for surmounting competition and securing victories against skilled opponents.
I have recently observed the commendable dedication of Brayden Benham, Xander Cole, and Ben Eckhoff, who have consistently frequented the gym in Lincoln to refine their basketball skills. This level of commitment distinguishes good players from the truly exceptional ones.
To enhance their performance, Lincoln is prioritising the reduction of turnovers, a detrimental weakness exposed in their previous games. They are also actively seeking an adept ball handler to strengthen their team.
In a recent faceoff between Lincoln and Cole Camp at Stover in the Paradise Shootout, Lincoln displayed potential for a successful season, while Cole Camp is in a rebuilding phase following the departure of key players such as Reid Harrison and Gentry Dieckman due to graduation.
It has been said by a 30-points-per-game scorer that “learning how to dribble will take you somewhere.” This statement reinforces the importance of mastering the fundamentals in excelling in the sport, a value embodied in the dedication of players like Brayden Benham, Xander Cole, and Ben Eckhoff.
With the upcoming basketball season imminent, the admirable dedication and hard work displayed by these young athletes will undoubtedly yield positive results. The time and effort they invest during the summer will undoubtedly be reflected in their performance when the competitive season commences.
As summer basketball activities are in full swing, it is apparent that the future of Benton County basketball is in capable hands. These players are not only preparing for the upcoming season but are also laying the groundwork for promising and successful careers in the sport.