In basketball, height does not always translate to greatness. Many
players in the small forward position have made their mark in the
history of the game like Julius Erving, Dominique Wilkins, Larry Bird,
and Scottie Pippen, not because of their size but because of their
amazing basketball skills and unparalleled knowledge of the game.
Through their important contributions, their teams have been recognized
as the best in their own generations. There is nothing wrong in aspiring
to become as good as these small forwards in basketball, but rest
assuredly, it's not going to happen in a flash. It will take time for
any basketball player to hone his skills in order to be considered as a
good small forward of the game.
To develop into a good small forward in basketball, you must have the following characteristics:
- the desire to win
- complete dedication
- court leadership
Desire to win.
You must always think about winning when you play basketball to boost
your confidence and to step up your game. Playing without a specific
goal or purpose is not going to help you achieve your aspiration to be a
good small forward; therefore, establish your objective first-to win
the game! By having this desire, you will always be focus and you will
never allow the opposing team to get the best of you in any of your
games.
Complete dedication to the game. Be the first one
to arrive and the last one to leave the court. Practice longer than your
teammates, whether in shooting or dribbling. Remember the old adage,
"practice makes perfect" and fulfill it. Live, drink, and eat basketball
so you'll become a good small forward of your team. Everybody will
recognize you if they witness your full dedication on and off the court.
Soon, you will find yourself being imitated by your teammates and will
be acknowledged as a leader of the team.
Be a leader.
Once your teammates put their trust in you, take the lead and accept the
responsibility. Be their leader on the court and always remind them of
the importance of every game you play. Encourage your teammates to rev
up their game when you feel that they are losing sight of victory. Carry
the team to triumph by getting everyone involved, including those who
are sitting on the bench. Remind them that they are part of the team,
not just spectators of the players who are out on the floor.
Basketball is not won by one man's strength but by the collective
efforts of the team. As a good small forward, you can be the upholder of
your team's success by always giving your best in every game you
participate in and by continually improving your skills through
perpetual practice and undiminished commitment.