Hey C boys,
while keeping track with your latest tournament fixtures, I realised that you guys are on the brink of elimination so I hope you guys would benefit from this pregame message and tips.
So far after all the latest hype since the South Zone finals, you guys face danger of ending your season tomorrow. Let's get something straight. The situation is not hopeless. Despite your first loss to Jurong this year, there's no reason why tomorrow's game cannot go your way if you play it well.
Personally, I am not a member of your C Division so i am not that well- informed of your weaknesses and your opponent's game, but I know one thing. You guys have your strengths, and it is extremely obvious. It's the reason why you won your South Zone finals and excelled in all your games so far. Your team knows who's good at what, who's not so good in some things, so tomorrow, what you can add to the team play when you come of the bench (if you're a bench player), just play to your strengths and get ready for a true battle of the FIGHT in Raffles Basketball.
During your mental preparation tomorrow, for one minute remember the worst game you ever played. What did you do wrongly? Were you lacking effort? Remember the wrong choices at the wrong times. Wallow in it for 10 seconds, then close your eyes and let it fade away, out with your exhaling breath.
After that, close your eyes and recall the best game you ever had. Whether it's a long time ago, or just the match today, shut down your mind to all but that great performance. Did you think about making every shot? Where were you on the court? What kind of experience you were getting from the game? Imagine someone recorded the highlights of your best game ever. Breathe it in and let it enrich your senses, let your desire for that same level of performance prepare yourself mentally, for confidence, for clutch moments, etc.
Become mentally strong for tomorrow, be prepared to be so tired that it's a whole new level of fatigue. But the rule is, never give up till the whistle it's over. Even the NBA example of Tracy McGrady, scoring 13 points in 35 seconds, coming back from a 12 point deficit against the San Antonio Spurs. Well doesn't necessarily mean one of you guys will knock down 4 threes in the clutch tomorrow, but the idea is there. You cannot be sure where the ball is rolling till it stops.
Focus on winning quarter by quarter tomorrow. The stats and scores are no longer important. Remember that playing well, excelling in defense and working on those boards will result in good offense and the fate of the game. Keep pushing hard for it, don't stop believing, and get to the semi finals that your seniors and old boys are all feverishly anticipating.
JIAYOU RI C DIV '10! (:
