I did something in athletics worth mentioning

I got a text message this afternoon about playing intramural basketball. I was about to go to Big Y when I responded with a maybe because I wasn't sure how much studying I would need to do since I wasn't on campus this weekend. Then I realized that I would be fine in terms of studying and also thought that I would probably make the game winning shot so I went from a maybe to going.

For some reason I really thought I was going to make the game winning shot, even though I am an average basketball player at best. I don't really create much off of the dribble. I need space in order to operate so if I get the ball and can't get a shot off I look to pass. In a typical 40 minute intramural game I'll hustle, get rebounds, make a few assists and take one or two shots. I still thought that I would make the game winner even though I am not a cocky person.

The last thing I did before I left for the gym was to write the initials of a soccer player with the words "Let's Go" on the palm of my hand to inspire and motivate me. This one player says those words all the time and those words get me going. I love hearing those words. Those two words remind me to focus, to be intense, to stay positive and to keep my head in the game.

Anyway I thought I played awful for most of the game. I usually don't have too many turnovers but I had two bad passes that I'd like back. One was my fault, and the other was a great play by the defender. The defender disguised himself well on the pass. I grabbed a couple of rebounds and had a couple of assists too. We were down by 7 late in the game but were able to get the game tied late. With 5 seconds left we inbounded the ball and one of my teammates got the ball but was well defended. He passed me the ball on the left baseline with a second or two left. I took an off balance mid range jump shot with one hand. I thought I was going to miss it when it left my hand. It caught the front rim and I got a friendly bounce and the ball went in with a second left. I was getting ready to play defense and then looked at the clock and saw that it was 0.0. We had won, and I made the game winning shot like I thought I would. My teammates won the game though. They got the game tied and I got the glory at the end. I also think my positive thinking and two words from that soccer player helped me out.

The mayor of Storrs, The Honorable Ryan Marciel Grace was also there. That meant a lot to me. I go to a lot of his intramural games and I'm glad he got to see me do something worthwhile in an intramural game.