Fearless or Clueless?

Coaches like players who aren't afraid to make a play at "crunch time." Players who want to handle the ball against pressure, players who want to take the big shot. Players who want to go to the foul line in the final seconds to win the game. Usually these are the most highly skilled players on the team, the players that should have the ball in these situations. These players seem immune to the pressure, fearless.

However, some players don't understand their role on the team. These players want the ball at crunch time, only to turn it over. They want to take the big shot, only to clang it off of the rim. They don't understand that the reason that they are open at crunch time is because the defense wants them to have the ball. Coaches shake their heads and wince, wondering why these players don't "get it." These players seem immune to court awareness, clueless.

Develop your skills. Understand your role on the team. Know and understand your coach's game plan. Work to make yourself fearless, not clueless.