Every athlete is familiar with the excitement that surfaces the night before a big game. The larger the stakes, the more uncontrollable the incitement.
As a current college athlete who has played basketball for most of her life, I have experienced the thrill that takes over the body prior to game day more times than I can count. The funny thing is that most times the excitement turns into deep thoughts influenced by high expectations, pressure, and the contemplation of "what if" situations, which have the potential to cause massive anxiety. And so while at first you may have a vision of running onto the court like a complete boss, you may actually start to envision something much different happening.
As much as you try not to, you start to think about the all the things that could possibly go wrong. Like what if you get in foul trouble, or miss a crucial free throw, or make a bad pass...
Pretty soon you're laying in bed freaking out!
The problem is that you care too much—you're so invested in the sport that you know one game can be so important to your team's season. And while your teammates understand what you're going through, because most are are as well, other friends and family who keep hitting you up and wanting to talk about something else other than your impending fate get real annoying real quick!
My advice?
Stay hype, and get ready to dominate. The more you see yourself going crazy and making that game winning shot, the more likely it will come to fruition. As corny as it sounds, you have to believe that when it comes down to it, you're prepared and ready. Be confident, because this is all you've been working for!
